The Vice-Chancellor of Alex EkwuemeFederal University Ndufu-Alike,Ebonyi State, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the relationship between the university and its host community through strategic engagement, dialogue, inclusivity and sustainable development.
Prof. Nwachukwu gave the assurance on Monday, during an interactive meeting with leaders of the Association of University Land Owners and representatives of the university’s host communities, comprising Ohankwu, Eyimchukwu, Onyikwa, Izzangbo villages and Amagu Ndufu-Echara.
He said his administration would pursue peaceful engagement, transparency and continuous consultation in addressing all matters affecting the university and its host communities, stressing that dialogue, remains the most effective approach to resolving differences.
The Vice-Chancellor further disclosed plans to promote community development through job and admission opportunities for qualified indigenes, increased patronage of local businesses, medical and educational outreach programmes and other people-oriented initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of residents. He emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence, adding that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of mutual trust and cooperation.
He reaffirmed his commitment to transforming AE-FUNAI into a world-class institution while ensuring that host communities remain key partners in the university’s growth and development. He urged the communities to continue supporting the university in the collective interest of peace, progress and shared prosperity, noting that he would bring their issues to the attention of the Ebonyi State Government, whose duty it is, to compensate and relocate them to new place.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, the Vice-Chairman of the Association of University Land Owners, Prof. Agabus Chidiebube Uzo, while welcoming the Vice-Chancellor on his maiden visit to the communities, commended him for engaging directly with the host community stakeholders. He recalled issues surrounding land acquisition, compensation and privileges due to the host communities had lingered for years, creating strains in the relationship between the university and its neighbours.
Prof. Agabus noted that although previous administrations had made efforts to address some of the concerns, several matters remained unresolved. He, therefore, appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to adopt consultation and dialogue in resolving all outstanding issues for the benefits of both the university and the host community.
Contributing, the President General, Alike Development Union and Coordinator, Ikwo East Development Centre, Hon. Apostle Emmanuel Mbam, expressed optimism that Prof. Nwachukwu’s administration would usher in a new era of mutual trust, peace and cooperation. He assured his leadership readiness to work with the university to maintain peace and foster mutual understanding, and amicably resolve all lingering issues to the benefits of everyone.
