By Rev Fr Benedict C.C. Amuchie
During the 16th Convocation Ceremony of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), the Governor of Anambra State, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, paid glowing tribute to the late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju, the pioneer founder and first Visitor of the university. In a gesture of honour, Governor Soludo announced that the Uli Campus would be named after the late Chinwoke Mbadinuju.
On the surface, this appears noble and commendable. Giving honour to whom honour is due aligns with both moral reasoning and scriptural injunction: “Render therefore to all their dues… honour to whom honour is due” (Romans 13:7). Indeed, remembering those who laid the foundations of our institutions is a mark of gratitude and historical consciousness.
However, beyond the good intention lies a practical concern that calls for careful reflection. Can one university coherently bear two different names without creating confusion? The proposal, as it stands, raises serious questions about institutional identity, administrative clarity, and public perception.
A university, by its very nature, is a corporate academic identity. To assign multiple names; whether directly or indirectly through campuses, risks blurring that identity. One can only imagine the complexity of names like, “Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Chinwoke Mbadinuju Campus, Uli,” or “Chinwoke Mbadinuju Campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Anambra State”, that sounds funny. Such names, though well intended, may appear cumbersome and, frankly, confusing. I am aware that Prof Charles Soludo taught at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, an institution with two campuses in Nsukka and Enugu but has maintained one name till date.
If the intention is to immortalize the legacy of the late Mbadinuju in a more enduring and distinct manner, a more structured approach may be considered. For instance, the Uli Campus could be developed into a full fledged, autonomous university bearing his name. This would not only preserve clarity but also expand access to higher education within the state. After all, other states, such as Imo, have successfully established multiple state owned universities across different locations.
Furthermore, consistency in institutional identity is not a trivial matter. The university in question has undergone several name changes over the years; from ANATECH to ASUTECH, to ANSU, and now COOU. While each transition may have been driven by historical or political considerations, the cumulative effect on graduates cannot be ignored. In the labour market, where clarity and verification are crucial, multiple institutional identities can pose real challenges. As Scripture wisely reminds us, “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).
Another dimension worth considering is the uniformity of academic certification. It would be deeply problematic if graduates from different campuses of the same university were perceived differently or issued certificates that suggest varying institutional identities. Such a development could undermine the credibility and unity of the university system.
It is also important, in the spirit of fairness and historical balance, to acknowledge other key contributors to the growth of the institution. While rightly honouring the late Mbadinuju for the Uli Campus, due recognition should equally be extended to Mr Peter Obi, whose administration played a pivotal role in building and developing the Igbariam Main Campus.
This reflection is not intended as a critique of the Governor’s goodwill, but rather as a professional and pastoral appeal for thoughtful implementation. Leadership, especially at such a level, carries the responsibility of foresight. As Proverbs 4:7 counsels, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”
The people of Anambra State and indeed, the academic community, expect the best from a scholar of Governor Soludo’s standing. Honouring the past must go hand in hand with safeguarding the future. A clear, consistent, and well structured identity for our institutions will serve both present and future generations better.
Rev. Fr. Ben Amuchie, respected clergyman, distinguished scholar, prolific writer, and seasoned public affairs analyst, pens this discourse in the spirit of pastoral care and commitment to sound institutional identity
