SOLUDO, BISHOPS, DIGNITARIES CELEBRATE COOU VICE-CHANCELLOR AT THANKSGIVING MASS, HUSBAND’S 70TH BIRTHDAY

The Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, on Sunday, July 19, 2026, led family, friends, government officials, clergy and well-wishers in a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Nnobi, in appreciation to God for her appointment as the fifth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University and in celebration of the 70th birthday of her husband, Noble Dr. Michael Cosmos Omenugha. The colourful celebration attracted an array of distinguished personalities from across the country, reflecting the goodwill and admiration the family enjoys.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Governor of Anambra State and Visitor to the University, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR; the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze and his wife; the Chairman of the COOU Governing Council, Prof. Peter A. Onwualu; members of the University’s Governing Council; principal officers of the University; traditional rulers; friends and numerous well-wishers.

Also present were three Catholic Bishops: Most Rev. Felix Femi Ajakaye, Bishop of Ekiti Diocese; Most Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, Bishop of Nnewi Diocese; and the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Thomas Ifeanyichukwu Obiatuegwu, alongside several priests and religious faithful who joined in the thanksgiving.

Delivering the homily, Most Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye thanked God for preserving the lives of Noble Dr. Michael Cosmos Omenugha and Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha. He extolled the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to public service, recalling her remarkable achievements during her tenure as Commissioner for Education in Anambra State, particularly her bold reforms that led to the closure of illegal special examination centres. The Bishop prayed for God’s continued protection, wisdom and strength upon the celebrants, while urging them to remain steadfast in their service to God and humanity.

In her remarks, Prof. Omenugha expressed profound gratitude to God for His faithfulness and acknowledged the overwhelming support of the bishops, priests, dignitaries, colleagues, friends and family members who honoured the occasion with their presence. She specially appreciated Governor Soludo for finding time to celebrate with her family despite his demanding schedule, describing his presence as a great privilege and encouragement. The Vice-Chancellor also paid glowing tribute to her husband, Noble Dr. Michael Cosmos Omenugha, describing him as a dependable pillar of strength whose steadfast love, sacrifice and support have remained instrumental throughout her life’s journey and public service.

Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo in his remarks commended Prof. Omenugha for her steadfast commitment to quality education and transformational leadership, noting that her sterling performance as Commissioner for Education affirmed that she was well suited for the office of Vice-Chancellor. He also celebrated Noble Dr. Michael Cosmos Omenugha on his 70th birthday, praying for God’s continued blessings, sound health and many more fruitful years.

The thanksgiving celebration concluded with an episcopal blessing pronounced over the Omenugha family by the bishops, the presentation of a special gift from His Holiness the Pope to the family, and a memorable group photograph, bringing to a close a joyous celebration of faith, service and thanksgiving.

©️COOUNewS, 2026