Chief Osita Chidoka, Chancellor of the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, has proposed the establishment of a N100 billion endowment fund aimed at transforming Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) into one of Africa’s top educational institutions. Speaking at the 3rd Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Lecture, Chidoka emphasized the urgent need for COOU to evolve into a hub of innovation, addressing crucial issues like erosion, insecurity, and sustainable development, particularly in Igboland and Nigeria.

Chidoka outlined that this endowment fund would ensure the university’s continued excellence, funding groundbreaking research, offering scholarships, and maintaining top-tier infrastructure, regardless of the government’s budget constraints. “Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University should not only carry the name of a great leader but should also embody his legacy by becoming a beacon of excellence,” he said.

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Advocating for a model similar to India’s prestigious Institutes of Technology (IITs), Chidoka called on the Nigerian government to embrace the “Elitism of Ability” approach. He noted that leading companies like Microsoft, Alphabet (Google’s parent), and Adobe owe much of their success to the meritocratic nature of IITs. Chidoka emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and encouraging innovation to drive the nation’s development.

During his address, he pointed out that while Nigeria has a wealth of universities and talented students, many institutions suffer from inadequate resources, lack of global partnerships, and a lack of strategic direction. This, he explained, prevents them from reaching their full potential and competing on the global stage.

Reflecting on the example set by Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s decision to join the military despite his privileged background, Chidoka stressed that education must be more than just a route to comfort. It should be a foundation for courage, societal change, and civic responsibility. “Education must instill the values to address the challenges facing our society,” he added.

The event also featured remarks from Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kate Omenugha, who highlighted her administration’s “Three Vs” program—Values, Viability, and Visibility—aimed at guiding COOU’s growth. Attendees included dignitaries such as Anambra State Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim and former Minister of Information Labaran Maku, who used the occasion to call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB).