In the history of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, tagged the ‘University of the Moment’ and a South East based Federal University which is always on the positive spotlight, there exists a luminary whose tenure has left an indelible mark on the institution’s reputation and standing. Mrs. Chikaodinaka Gladys Ijeoma Ene, the immediate past Information, Public Relations and Chief Protocol Officer, epitomized excellence, resilience, and dedication throughout her illustrious career spanning over four years.
A popular saying that is mostly used Cliche in modern times goes in this form, ‘What A Man can do, A Woman can do better’.
In her search for fulfillment having learnt from her Late father Mr. George Ejiofor Onwurah (who retired as a School Principal/Administrator), Mrs. Ene joined Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka through the push of her father as an Administrative Assistant/Content Editor and rose through the ranks at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
She commenced her career in the ivory tower from the Office of the Public Relations and made her marks which projected her to be appointed, first as the Acting Head, Information and Public Relations and Chief Protocol Officer while still a Senior Assistant Registrar on Level 11 as at October 2019.
During her tenure, Mrs. Ene, with her innate flair for media relations and exceptional leadership skills, steered the university through turbulent waters, adeptly navigating crises and emerging victorious, with the university’s image shining brighter than ever before. Despite the challenges that besieged her, she remained steadfast, embodying the values of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the university’s cause.
In her journey to excellence, rooted in her humble beginnings and determination to succeed. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), she embarked on a career path marked by resilience and tenacity.
Mrs. Ene’s ascent through the ranks of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is a confirmation of her exceptional talent and dedication to duty. From her humble beginnings as an Administrative Assistant/Content Editor, she rose through the ranks, earning accolades and recognition for her outstanding contributions to the university’s public relations efforts.
Mrs. Ene was able to manage a handful of administrative bottlenecks that have emanated since then and still kept a positive image of the University. Aside her educational background, Chika is a member of some professional bodies/associations such as the Computer Professionals of Nigeria (CPN), Member Association of Nigeria University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) and Associate Member Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
In her successful four years and six months service on the saddle as the PRO under the dynamic, enigmatic and visionary ‘Project 200’ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charles O. Esimone, FAS. Just like other prominent ladies in the institution such as Barr. Philomena Iwara Okoye, ‘The immediate past Registrar of UNIZIK’; Engr. Prof. Philomena Igbokwe, The current Provost (College of Post-Graduate Studies); Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi, ‘The former and first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK just to mention but a few, Mrs Ene lived up to expectations in her role, making a big mark in image making of the institution.
As a testament to her down-to-earth character, Mrs. Ene’s unassuming nature belies her extraordinary achievements. As a media expert, she skillfully cultivated relationships, both within the university community and beyond, transforming Nnamdi Azikiwe University into a widely recognized and respected brand across the nation and beyond.
The unique qualities demonstrated were attested to by academics and non academic staff members of the university, even the Union members, including the National Association of Nigerians students (NANS) who praised her relentless support and leadership role to achieve a flawless Union operation in then prestigious Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.
Her contributions to external relations have been nothing short of remarkable, cementing the university’s position as a beacon of academic excellence.
As she embarks on a new chapter in her career, having been redeployed to the Directorate of UNIZIK Advancement Board, Mrs. Ene’s legacy of excellence and commitment will continue to inspire generations to come. Her dedication to service and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Mrs. Chikaodinaka Gladys Ijeoma Ene, as she continues to make indelible marks in her service to the university and beyond
