Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, has underscored the importance of self-sufficiency in food production, advocating for Nigeria to
“Produce what they eat and eat what they produce.”
He also emphasized the institution’s commitment to addressing food insecurity in Nigeria in a recent media briefing marking his fourth year in office.
Highlighting the university’s advancements, he announced the relisting of previously lost courses and the establishment of new centres, such as the Centre for Agric incubation and artificial intelligence.
He also highlighted the university’s success in SMART Agriculture, producing high-quality crops like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers, as well as beans and plantain flour. He attributed the nation’s food insecurity challenges to a lack of preparedness among citizens.
Addressing the proposal in the House of Representatives to convert MOUAU into a general university, Professor Iwe cautioned against such changes, citing the historical significance of the institution. He argued that Abia State requires a think tank free from political influence and suggested the need for an additional federal university in the state.
On financial matters, Professor Iwe clarified that contract awards are not within the Vice Chancellor’s purview, emphasizing the streamlined procurement process in Nigeria. He assured that funds allocated for contracts would be properly managed, reinforcing the university’s role as an educational center rather than a profit-driven entity.
The Vice Chancellor expressed satisfaction with the university’s growing status as a revenue-generating institution, with products like MOUAU Bread, Biscuits, and table water gaining popularity beyond the local region. He highlighted the institution’s entrepreneurial focus and the clean bill of health from NAFDAC for its products.
Professor Iwe also celebrated the university’s international linkages across Asia, Europe, and America, and its membership in the League of Tropical Universities. Reflecting on his tenure, he noted the transformation of MOUAU’s image and its emergence as a global institution.
However, he lamented the chronic underfunding of universities, noting that over 70% worldwide are treated as charitable entities. He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and encouraged students to utilize it responsibly.
On the issue of the
“Japa syndrome,”
where trained staff leave the country, the VC also wants president bola Tinubu to direct relevant agencies to allow universities employ academic and non academic staff to fill vacancies which have been their for about five years, if not filled immediately it will affect the teaching and learning in Nigeria university.
Professor Iwe pushes for the creation of a new federal university in Abia state to reduce the borden of the existing university.
The VC’s Reputation as a respected leader was cemented when he received an award of credence by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, as a significant honour.
During a meeting with the State Executive Council led by Comrade Chidi Asonye, Prof. Iwe expressed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with the NUJ to enhance societal and university community development.
Prof. Iwe acknowledged the prestige of receiving such recognition from the NUJ, which he described as,
“Pearl of high value”
expressing his gratitude for the honour.
In his address titled
“Time for Strategic Partnership,”
NUJ Abia State Council Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, praised Prof. Iwe for his leadership and achievements.
Comrade Asonye underscored the necessity of publicizing the university’s research findings to advance agricultural practices and ensure food security in Nigeria.
He proposed the introduction of agriculture-based certificate or diploma programs for journalists to enhance their reporting skills in the agricultural sector.
“This collaboration is anticipated to fortify the university’s Town and Gown initiatives, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and research to the broader community”
The NUJ Abia State Council Chairman stated, as he pledged the Council’s professional expertise to support the university’s objectives and amplify its influence on Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.