Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has appointed Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, as the new Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).

The announcement was made in a statement released by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, Bishop Kukah’s appointment is expected to bring fresh direction to the university, especially in areas of international collaboration, leadership development, and academic excellence.

The state government explained that Kukah’s global experience and strong reputation as both a religious leader and intellectual will help the institution build stronger partnerships with universities and organizations around the world. It also added that his presence is expected to inspire ethical leadership among students and staff.

Bishop Kukah is widely respected in Nigeria and beyond for his contributions to education, peacebuilding, and social justice. Over the years, he has combined his clerical duties with academic and public service engagements.

His academic journey includes studies at St. Augustine Major Seminary in Jos, a diploma from the University of Ibadan, a Bachelor of Divinity from Rome, and a Master’s degree in Peace Studies from the University of Bradford. He also holds a PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.

In addition, Kukah has undertaken further studies at prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford and Harvard University.

With this appointment, the Soludo administration says it is confident that COOU will continue to grow as a leading institution in Nigeria, driven by excellence, discipline, and global relevance.