Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Oguejiofo T. Ujam, has urged the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to partner with tertiary institutions in the region to address critical developmental challenges. Speaking at a special reception hosted by Prince Arthur Eze, Chairman of Oranto Petroleum, at the Oranto International Airport Hotel in Enugu, Prof. Ujam highlighted pressing issues such as erosion, unemployment, and infrastructural deficits.
Prof. Ujam commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the SEDC, calling it a significant step toward fulfilling the long-overdue promise of reconstruction in the Southeast. He cited the region’s challenges, including approximately 2,500 active erosion sites, a 28% unemployment and underemployment rate, and a severe infrastructure gap that the World Bank estimates would require $10 billion in annual investment for the next 30 years to resolve.
The Acting VC urged the SEDC Governing Board, led by Dr. Emeka Wogu, to align its programs with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing the potential for transformative partnerships. “The UNN and other tertiary institutions in the Southeast are eager to partner with the SEDC. Our doors are open for supportive ideas and collaborative ventures—whether it’s upgrading classrooms, laboratories, libraries, transportation systems, sustainable energy sources, or staff housing,” he declared.
Prof. Ujam also stressed the importance of enhanced ICT infrastructure to support e-learning, research, and administration, particularly as the knowledge economy evolves in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Acknowledging rising regional insecurity fueled by separatist agitations and socio-economic decline, he called for collective efforts to stabilize and develop the Southeast.
Highlighting the potential for experiential learning and economic growth through improved infrastructure, Prof. Ujam concluded, “For the SEDC to fulfill its ambitious mandate, it is essential that stakeholders in Southeastern Nigeria have the platform and opportunity to actively engage and contribute. This collaboration would not only serve as a fitting tribute to President Tinubu’s visionary initiative but also drive rapid development in our region.”
