Prof. Odinkalu Tasks Unizik Lecturers on Professional Excellence, Integrity

By Gabriel Chy Alonta

Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, a former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has urged university lecturers to prioritize professional excellence and personal integrity over the relentless pursuit of material wealth.

He emphasized that scholars should focus on building a reputable name rather than being driven solely by financial gains.

Prof. Odinkalu, a legal practitioner and distinguished scholar, made this call as the guest speaker at the Faculty Retreat and Tourism organized by the Faculty of Social Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The event, held at Agulu Lake Hotels & Resort, was themed “Detegere Scholaris” (To Rediscover the Scholar) and was chaired by the Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Philomena Igbokwe.

In his address, Prof. Odinkalu emphasized the necessity for academics to commit to professional excellence, asserting that financial rewards would naturally follow as a consequence of hard work.

He stressed that integrity should remain a cornerstone of both professional and personal engagements, as “a good name is better than riches.” He further encouraged younger academics to invest in their intellectual development, approach teaching with passion, and remain dedicated to their students, assuring them that such efforts would yield long-term rewards.

Prof. Odinkalu also commended the idea of allowing lecturers to unwind, acknowledging the importance of periodic breaks from their rigorous schedules. He advised participants to prioritize self-care, relaxation, and leisure, noting that these contribute to better health and enhanced professional performance.

Declaring the event open, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, lauded the Faculty for organizing the retreat, describing it as essential for both professional growth and overall staff well-being. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to staff development and welfare.

In his remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Frank-Collins Okafor, explained that the retreat was designed to provide lecturers with an opportunity to reflect on their academic calling while also enjoying a refreshing break from the demands of their work.

He emphasized that such moments of reflection and relaxation were crucial for self-assessment, re-energization, and improved professional performance.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to former Deans of the Faculty of Social Sciences in recognition of their invaluable contributions. The awardees included Prof. G. C. Unachukwu, Prof. Azubuike Uzoka, Prof. C. C. Nweke, Prof. Israel ‘Kelue Okoye, Prof. Edmund Egboh, Prof. Godwin Onu, Prof. A. U. Nonyelum, Rev. Fr. Prof. Jude Ezeokana, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, and Prof. Collins Nwogwugwu.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Prof. Emeka Ezeonu, former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Imo State; ASUU-NAU Chairman, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji; former Deans of the Faculty of Social Sciences; several professors; heads of departments; and other faculty members.

A minute of silence was observed in honour of deceased former Deans, including Prof. N. N. Okoye, Prof. C. C. Nwabachili, and Prof. A. W. Obi, bringing the occasion to a solemn but dignified close.

@highlight Faculty of Education NAU Nnamdi Azikiwe University Unizik Business School – UBS Unizik Faculty of Education Alumni Unizik Portals