In a major boost to tertiary education and workers’ welfare in Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Soludo has approved the full implementation of the 2025 Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (FG-ASUU) agreement for staff of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU). The policy measure is officially scheduled to take effect in January 2027.
​The official directive was formally conveyed to the university leadership during a high-level briefing at the institution’s administrative headquarters in Igbariam on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
​The Chairman of the COOU Governing Council, Prof. Peter Onwualu, officially delivered the Governor’s decision to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, noting that the decision reflects Governor Soludo’s commitment to transforming the institution into a world-class center of learning while prioritizing staff welfare.
​Speaking on behalf of the state government and the university governing council, Prof. Onwualu stated:
​”In line with his administration’s social agenda to restore teaching as a profession of pride where academic professionals are appropriately rewarded, Governor Chukwuma Soludo has authorized the complete implementation of the 2025 FG-ASUU agreement for COOU staff starting in the 2027 fiscal year. This step is central to building a livable and prosperous homeland.”
​Reacting to the announcement, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor on behalf of the university’s Senate, staff, and students.
​Speaking via the Public Relations Unit through University Spokesperson Dr. Harrison Madubueze, the Vice-Chancellor commended both the state government and local labor union leaders for maintaining an productive dialogue.
​”This approval fulfills long-standing assurances made to our academic community,” Dr. Madubueze noted on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor. “Management extends deep appreciation to the leadership of the university’s labor unions for their patience and constructive engagement throughout negotiations. The full execution of this agreement will boost morale and elevate COOU’s global academic standing.”
​The implementation resolves years of agitation by the state university’s academic staff over salary scales and welfare packages aligned with national standards. With the official clearance given, the administrative and finance departments of COOU are set to incorporate the upgraded structure into the state’s 2027 fiscal budget framework.
