By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
The long-anticipated journey to establishing the University of Mbaise took a significant step forward with a grand groundbreaking ceremony at Ife in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State. The event, imbued with hope and a vision for progress, marked the formal commencement of what is set to become a transformative institution for the region and beyond.
Officiated by Bishop Chamberlain Chinedum Ogunedo, the ceremony was dedicated to God Almighty, setting a tone of spiritual guidance and ethical foundation for the new university. The handlers of the project confidently assured attendees that the institution would open its doors to its first set of students in the 2026 academic year, bringing the dream of quality education closer to reality.
The occasion attracted a diverse audience, including renowned academicians from within Nigeria and the diaspora, particularly members of the Mbaise community. This shared enthusiasm underscored the unity and collective ambition of a people determined to see their land become a hub of intellectual and economic excellence.
Engr. Obioma Justice Obasi, President-General emeritus of Ife Autonomous Community, spoke passionately on behalf of Professor B. A. Nwachukwu, the Traditional Ruler of Ife and former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO). He highlighted Ife’s historical significance, referring to it as the “Cradle of Mbaise Civilization” and tracing its legacy through a series of firsts, including the establishment of the first conventional school in 1904, the first English school in 1912, and the first secondary school in 1955. He described the selection of Ife as the university’s site as a continuation of this proud legacy, emphasizing the community’s aspiration to transform itself into a “First World Community in a Third World Country.”
The University of Mbaise project, situated on a sprawling 104-acre site adjacent to Ife Grammar School, has already made considerable progress. Its operating license has been secured, and key surveys, designs, and documentation have been completed. The project team extended an open invitation to individuals and organizations to invest in infrastructure such as hostels and other facilities, signalling opportunities for economic growth alongside academic development.
The community’s commitment to the success of the university was evident in the remarks of Sir Joe Anosike, President-General of Ezuruezu Mbaise, who chaired the occasion. He described the groundbreaking as a long-awaited milestone and expressed optimism about the university’s potential to accelerate development in the region. Echoing this sentiment, Samuel Onyebuchi Umunnakwe, President-General of Ife Community Development Union, praised the community’s unity in embracing the project and highlighted the anticipated benefits, including improved infrastructure, enhanced economic activities, and increased opportunities for human capacity development.
Engr. Obasi’s heartfelt call for unity resonated deeply with attendees. He urged the people of Ife and Mbaise at large to rally behind the project, emphasizing that collective effort was key to its success. “Let’s join hands as a community to build and sustain this university,” he said. “Through this institution, we can unlock unprecedented growth and progress.”
To ensure the safety of the institution and its environs, a robust security framework, christened “I-Guard,” has been put in place. This proactive measure underscores the seriousness with which stakeholders are approaching every aspect of the university’s development.
Located in the hometown of former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Mrs. Ada Okwuonu, the University of Mbaise is poised to redefine education and development in the region. It stands as a testament to the determination of the Mbaise people to invest in their future and secure a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.
As Nigeria continues to expand its higher education landscape, with 270 universities nationwide and 148 of them privately owned, the University of Mbaise promises to stand out as a beacon of progress. Its establishment not only enhances the educational profile of Mbaise but also cements its place as a center of excellence and innovation.
The groundbreaking ceremony was more than just a ceremonial event—it was a declaration of hope, unity, and vision. The University of Mbaise represents the aspirations of a community determined to rise and thrive, proving that with shared purpose and dedication, remarkable achievements are possible.
- Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke Updates ©️.
