Chairman of the occasion and Interpol Systems Consultant, Sir Chikwe Udensi, has called on universities to prioritize integrity in education, warning that knowledge without character poses a danger to society.
Udensi made the remark on Wednesday at the Founder’s Day and 4th Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Memorial Lecture of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), held as part of activities marking the institution’s 16th Convocation Ceremony.
Addressing participants at the event, Udensi emphasized that universities must go beyond academic excellence to build ethical values and responsible leadership among students.
“Education without integrity is dangerous. Institutions must not only produce graduates but also men and women of character,” he stated.
In line with this vision, Udensi announced plans to establish an Ethical Centre within the university. According to him, the centre will serve as a hub for promoting ethical leadership and will include a library dedicated to books on ethics and integrity.
The event also witnessed the recognition of several distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to the development of the university. Those honoured included former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige; former Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Leonard Muoghalu; Co-founder of Seplat Energy Plc, Dr. Ambrose Orjiakor; former lawmaker, Engr. Fort Dike; former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie; and Barr. Donatus Okeke, among others.
Earlier in her address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, described the occasion as a celebration of the institution’s growth and achievements. She disclosed that the university now boasts 15 faculties, 70 academic departments, over 1,500 staff, and more than 55,000 alumni.
She also highlighted the institution’s commitment to environmental sustainability through initiatives such as the “Pick It Campaign,” which enforces strict penalties, including a one-year suspension for students who litter the campus.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, described the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu as a visionary leader whose legacy of justice, knowledge, and principled leadership continues to inspire generations.
Delivering the memorial lecture, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, stressed the need for collective action in addressing climate change, urging both public and private sectors to invest in sustainable development.
The event featured symbolic activities including tree planting, cake cutting, and award presentations, underscoring the university’s commitment to sustainability, excellence, and legacy.
Observers noted that Udensi’s remarks on ethical leadership stood out as a central message of the ceremony, reinforcing the need for value-driven education in shaping Nigeria’s future leadership.
