Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has appointed Matthew Hassan Kukah as the Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, in a move aimed at strengthening academic leadership and global partnerships within the institution.
The announcement was made in a press statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Tuesday.
Bishop Kukah, a prominent Nigerian cleric and public intellectual, is widely recognized for his contributions to scholarship, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy for social justice. His academic journey spans several prestigious institutions, including University of Ibadan, Pontifical Urban University, and the University of London, where he earned a Ph.D. from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in 1990.
He also pursued studies at globally renowned institutions such as University of Oxford and Harvard University. In addition, he holds a master’s degree in peace studies from the University of Bradford.
Beyond academia, Bishop Kukah is the founder of The Kukah Centre, a platform dedicated to promoting interfaith harmony, policy reform, and research-based advocacy in Nigeria.
According to the state government, his appointment is expected to enhance the university’s global outlook, foster international collaborations, and promote ethical leadership within the institution. It also reflects the administration’s commitment to producing well-rounded graduates equipped for both national and global challenges.
Observers note that the choice of Bishop Kukah underscores the government’s intention to blend academic excellence with strong moral and leadership values in the state’s higher education system.
The appointment takes immediate effect.
