The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi, made an unexpected visit to the university’s hostels on Friday, August 2, 2024.
The initiative, aimed at gaining a firsthand understanding of the living conditions and engaging directly with students, took many by surprise and showcased her dedication to improving student welfare.
Prof. Arinze-Umobi’s tour included several of the university’s hostels, such as the Chief Stella Okoli and Prof. Dora Akunyili Hostel, Basil Oli Hostel, Boys Hostel, Oby Ezekwesili Hostel, and Elmada Hostel. Throughout her inspection, she interacted warmly with students, attentively listening to their concerns and grievances regarding their living environments.
The students, visibly excited by the Acting VC’s presence, expressed gratitude for her proactive approach. During the visit, they raised a number of pressing issues affecting their daily lives, including inconsistent water supply, inadequate mattresses, unsatisfactory sanitary conditions, plumbing problems, unreliable power connectivity, and the urgent need for internet services (WiFi) to support their academic pursuits. They also highlighted the necessity for timely fumigation of the hostels to maintain a healthy living space.
In response to the students’ concerns, Prof. Arinze-Umobi commended them for their discipline and assured them that their issues would be addressed promptly. She instructed hostel leaders to compile a comprehensive letter detailing the grievances, to be submitted to her office by the following Monday for swift consideration. The Acting VC also reminded the students of the recent restoration of electricity, which had been disrupted for two days, and reaffirmed her commitment to resolving such challenges decisively.
With an open-door policy, Prof. Arinze-Umobi encouraged students to continue voicing their concerns, reinforcing her dedication to fostering a supportive and responsive university environment. The students hailed her visit as a testament to her commitment to their welfare, describing her approach as “motherly” and indicative of genuine concern for their living conditions.
Prof. Arinze-Umobi’s unscheduled inspection not only highlighted the importance of leadership accessibility but also served as a catalyst for positive change within the university. Students left the encounter feeling empowered and optimistic about the future of their living conditions, inspired by a leader who truly listens and acts on their behalf.