Leadership is often tested in times of adversity, and the story of Prof. Emeka Polycarp Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), is a testament to how visionary leadership can transform challenges into opportunities. Since assuming office, Prof. Chigbu has not only addressed long-standing issues but has also laid the groundwork for sustainable growth and development, breathing new life into an institution once plagued by inefficiencies.
Prof. Chigbu’s administration began with a powerful statement—an unprecedented administrative shake-up that reinvigorated the university’s management structure. This bold move sent a clear message: complacency and inefficiency would no longer be tolerated. It restored accountability, reinvigorated the administration, and set the tone for a transformative tenure.
One of his most significant achievements is his response to the university’s exorbitant electricity bills. The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) had presented a bloated monthly bill of ₦171 million, which Prof. Chigbu identified as a clear case of extortion. Instead of succumbing, he led the university through a brief yet efficient transition to alternative power supplies, forcing EEDC to renegotiate and drastically reduce its billing. This bold negotiation saved the university millions, demonstrating his financial acumen and commitment to resource optimization.
Campus security has also seen remarkable improvements under Prof. Chigbu’s leadership. His decisive approach to addressing safety concerns has revitalized the university’s security department, creating a safer and more conducive environment for learning and research. This has bolstered confidence among students and staff, contributing to a more vibrant academic community.
In addition, Prof. Chigbu has spearheaded efforts to restore the university’s aesthetic appeal. The lush lawns and landscapes, once a defining feature of UNN, are being meticulously revitalized. This seemingly small change is a reflection of the administration’s commitment to excellence in every facet of university life, symbolizing a return to the institution’s former glory.
Prof. Chigbu’s short time in office has been characterized by bold decisions and transformative actions. Despite financial constraints, he has demonstrated that leadership is not about the size of the budget but the quality of vision and the resolve to act. His tenure thus far stands as a shining example of what purposeful leadership can achieve, making him one of the most remarkable Acting Vice-Chancellors in the history of UNN.
Written by;
Dr Mrs Ifezue
Class of 2000
Medicine and surgery
LUTH LAGOS STATE
Consultant Anaesthetist
