AE-FUNAI new VC vows to transform institution into hub of academic, intellectual excellence

Amah-Ugbor Nnachi
South-East Bureau Chief

Newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI), Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, has promised to work tirelessly with all stakeholders—including the Governing Council, staff, and students—to transform the university into a hub of academic and intellectual excellence.

Prof. Nwachukwu gave the assurance in his acceptance speech following his appointment by the Governing Council as the fourth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution on Saturday.

“I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me by working tirelessly with the Council, staff, and students to transform AE-FUNAI into a hub of academic and intellectual excellence.

“My appointment marks a new beginning. I shall leverage my experience to drive infrastructural growth, academic innovation, ethical standards, and boost our global visibility and ranking.

“I also wish to thank the University Governing Council for finding me worthy to serve the institution in such an exalted position,” he said.

He further assured the university community of his commitment to prioritising staff and students’ welfare while working collaboratively to make AE-FUNAI a better place.

Prof. Nwachukwu dedicated his appointment to God, his wife and children, and all those who stood by him throughout his career journey.

He also extended a hand of fellowship to his fellow contestants, urging them to unite with him to propel the university to greater heights.

Following his appointment, the new Vice-Chancellor will assume office on February 11, 2026, after the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, on February 10, 2026.

Prof. Nwachukwu, who hails from Okposi in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was appointed by the Governing Council as the fourth Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

A professor of Cardiovascular Physiology, his appointment followed a painstaking and transparent selection process involving over 40 seasoned professors. He was elected Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), in 2023.

He obtained his first degree in Human Physiology from the University of Lagos in 1995, earned his master’s degree from the University of Benin in 1997, and completed his PhD in 2012.

Prof. Nwachukwu has had an illustrious academic career spanning over 26 years, having joined the services of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), as a lecturer in July 1999 and rising to the rank of professor in 2016.