A NIGERIAN VICE-CHANCELLOR WITH A NOVEL DEVELOPMENTAL METTLE

Professor.Ozo-mekuri Ndimele came to Ignatius Ajuru University of
Education, Rumuolumeni Portharcourt at the time when every aspect of the institution was in disarray; a situation likened to the Israelites under Pharaoh. He moved in swiftly, paid a backlog of salaries, and brokered peace among aggrieved staff.

He was concerned about the progress of students, he made policies that allowed struggling students to complete their programs. He also ensured that no student face any form of molestation, intimidation, or extortion from staff. 

The welfare of staff was also of much concern to him, all staff due for promotion were immediately promoted. This came at a time all hope was lost. The institution progressed significantly as well as the constituent staff on the three (3) campuses.

The institution had a new look, modern facilities to accommodate the increasing quota of the institution were erected. The faculty of Business Studies was moved from the temporary site to a befitting structure on the main campus.
He established a Distance learning in partnership with the University of London and other international Universities. The School of Post Graduate Studies attracted the crème de la crème of the society because of its effective school calendar and the state of the art facilities. Prof. Ozo-Mekuri Ndimele did all these in his first five years in office.

Before he left office as the Vice-Chancellor, he started and completed a beautiful edifice for research and development in the University and appointed a Professor in the university as Director. He also started and completed befitting offices for Professors and Senior staff.

The university environment became a new business hub when structures were raised in “New haven” which became an extension of the University accommodating staff and sea-view quarters. He also started a University microfinance bank with staff as shareholders to boost the finances of those involved.

He is a stable personality with a love for humanity as he touched lives in unique ways. A forgiving and goal-oriented man that is worthy of emulation. Nigeria needs many men like this in its educational institutions so as to attract foreign students just as students from some West African countries have applied to study at the University.
Kudos to Professor Ozo-Mekuri Ndimele a rare gem!! Jehovah-God bless you and your family, your legacy lives on as you have made an indelible mark in the lives of the staff and students. We join you to appreciate the governor
Nyesom Wike for giving you that opportunity!! 

Author: Dr.Martins Adekanmbi

Associate Dean 3 PG School

IGNATIUS AJURU UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION 

RUMUOLUMENI PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA