Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, as Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), in a move aimed at strengthening the institution’s academic standing and international profile.
The appointment was announced in a statement on Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, who said it forms part of ongoing reforms to reposition state-owned tertiary institutions for greater global relevance.
According to the statement, Bishop Kukah’s selection reflects the administration’s intention to deepen academic excellence, promote ethical leadership, and expand international partnerships within the university system.
Aburime described Kukah as a distinguished cleric, scholar, and public intellectual with a long record of engagement in education, governance, and social development.
“The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the appointment of Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University,” the statement read.
It noted that Kukah’s extensive academic background and global exposure were key factors in his selection, adding that he is expected to bring added visibility and intellectual depth to the institution.
The statement outlined Kukah’s academic journey, including studies at St Augustine Major Seminary, Jos; the University of Ibadan; the Pontifical Urban University, Rome; the University of Bradford; and a doctorate from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. It also referenced his academic engagements at Oxford University and Harvard University.
Beyond his academic credentials, Kukah is widely recognised for his advocacy on governance reforms, interfaith dialogue, and social justice. He is also the founder of The Kukah Centre, a policy and research organisation focused on peacebuilding and civic engagement.
The state government said his appointment is expected to leverage his global networks to attract partnerships that will enhance teaching, research, and institutional development at COOU.
According to Aburime, the decision aligns with Soludo’s broader vision of transforming education in Anambra State into a globally competitive system that produces skilled and ethically grounded graduates.
“The appointment is expected to foster international collaboration, strengthen ethical leadership, and support the university’s drive toward academic excellence,” he said.
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