Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, as the new Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), in what the state government describes as part of efforts to reposition the institution for academic excellence and global competitiveness.

The appointment was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, who said the decision aligns with ongoing reforms in the state-owned university system.

According to the statement, Bishop Kukah’s appointment is expected to strengthen the university’s international outlook, deepen institutional partnerships, and promote values of ethical leadership and academic excellence.

Aburime described Kukah as a respected cleric, intellectual, and social advocate whose work spans academia, theology, and public policy engagement.

“The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the appointment of Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University,” the statement read.

It added that Kukah’s extensive academic background and global exposure make him well-suited to provide leadership and visibility for the institution.

The statement highlighted Kukah’s academic journey, including studies at St Augustine Major Seminary in Jos, the University of Ibadan, the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, the University of Bradford, and a doctorate from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. It also noted his academic engagements at institutions such as Oxford University and Harvard University.

Beyond academia, Kukah is widely known for his advocacy on governance, interfaith dialogue, and social justice, as well as his role as founder of The Kukah Centre, which focuses on research-driven policy engagement and peacebuilding initiatives.

The government said his appointment is intended to leverage his international networks to attract collaborations that will enhance research, teaching, and institutional development at COOU.

“The appointment is expected to strengthen global partnerships, inspire ethical leadership within the university system, and support the production of well-rounded graduates,” Aburime said.