Nnamdi Azikiwe University launches Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy

Dignitaries and academia assembled yesterday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka for the launch of the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy; aptly named after former Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations, Chief Emeka Anyaoku.

Speaking at the event, Chief Emeka Anyaoku said he had devoted fifty years of working experience to develop and help resolve political problems within nations. Also tackling climate change and terrorism.

He added that the institute will provide facilities for learning diplomacy and international peace as he promises to deposit all his knowledge into the institute. The renowned diplomat however thanked the Vice Chancellor of the University for deeming it fit to honour him and promised to always be there to support the institute.

Also speaking, the chairman of the occasion and former minister of foreign affairs, General Ike Nwachukwu extolled Chief Emeka Anyaoku as a great diplomat being the first and only African to be the secretary general of Commonwealth.

The general also added that the institute for international studies and diplomacy will be used to prove to the World that Nigeria stands for peace. He concluded by congratulating the Vice Chancellor for honouring Emeka Anyaoku while he is still alive urging all lovers of peace to be part of the institute domicile in Nnamd Azikiwe University.

The executive governor of the state, Chief Willie Obiano while commending Chief Emeka Anyaoku for his good deeds as Secretary General, assured all Anambraians and everyone present of their safety while in the state.

The governor also promised to finish building the airport at Umeri in addition to attracting investors from China to invest in the state and build a modern railway in Anambra state as he donated ten million naira to the building of the institutions.

Contributing, the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof Joseph Ahaneku (FAS) praised the diplomatic deeds of Chief Emeka Anyaoku in bringing Nigeria back to common wealth. He added that naming the institute after Emeka Anyaoku marks a quantum leap in the discharge of the university core mandate of teaching, research and public service.

The Vice Chancellor remarked the university is privileged to host the historic event in light of sterling diplomatic contribution of Chief Emeka Anyaoku to promoting democracy and world peace.

He however urged every stakeholders to support the noble ventures of the institute generously, adding that facilities designated from which the institute will take off in 2017/2018 academic year as permanent facilities are being developed.

Other dignitaries present at the event include, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma Rtd., the former head of state, Gen. Abdusalami Abubakar Rtd.,  the president general Of Ohanaeze ndi igbo Onyia Nwodo amongst others.

Highlights of the event including launching of the building, presentation of picture art works to dignitaries amongst others.