The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, has urged Nigerians to stop addressing him as a Hausa man.
Kukah said he is a typical Nigerian from Kaduna State, insisting that he is not Hausa by origin.
He made the remark on Saturday during the 16th convocation ceremony of the university held at its auditorium.
He also charged graduating students to uphold good character and be worthy ambassadors of their parents, the university, Anambra State, the South-East and Nigeria at large.
The new Chancellor commended the Anambra State Government for its investment in education, noting that the state is performing well in the sector.
He said, “I am a typical Nigerian from Anchuna, Ikulu Chiefdom in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, but not a Hausa man by origin. Nigerians should stop addressing me as a Hausa person.
“As the new Chancellor of this institution, we will not only strive to achieve the university’s goals, but surpass them.”
He also appreciated the state governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for appointing him as Chancellor of the university.
Kukah was formally installed as Chancellor during the ceremony by the governor.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, in his remarks, expressed delight while decorating Kukah, saying his experience and moral leadership would strengthen the institution.
Soludo said, “It was a great honour to be present at the 16th Convocation Ceremony of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University as a visitor to this great institution.
“The ceremony was a celebration of excellence, hard work, and the power of quality education. It was also a reminder of the critical role universities play in training skilled manpower, shaping character, advancing knowledge, and preparing young people to contribute meaningfully to society.
“I was particularly delighted to decorate the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, as the new Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.
“I am confident that his wisdom, experience, and moral leadership will further strengthen the vision and standing of the university.
“In recognition of exceptional academic achievement, I announced a ₦4 million cash gift to Somtochukwu Augustus Ume of the Economics Department, who emerged as the overall best graduating student at COOU’s 16th Convocation with an outstanding CGPA of 4.85 out of 5.0.
“I also offered scholarships to 37 first-class graduates of the university’s 16th Convocation to support their postgraduate studies up to the highest level at any public university of their choice.”
He charged the university to remain focused on producing problem-solvers rather than mere certificate holders.
“Our institutions of higher learning must go beyond awarding certificates; they must raise innovative, solution-driven, and globally competitive graduates who can respond to the challenges of our time.
“To the graduands, I urged them to seize the moment and emerge as beacons of hope, disruptive thinkers, and agents of change in society. The future belongs to those who are prepared to lead with courage, creativity, and purpose,” he added.
