Education
Soludo Names Prof. Kate Omenugha as Substantive VC of COOU After Transformative Acting Tenure
In a move signalling confidence in continuity and academic excellence, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has confirmed the appointment of Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).
The confirmation, which was formally delivered at a ceremony held on Wednesday, 7th August 2025, at the Light House in Awka, marks a significant milestone for the university and the education sector in Anambra State.
Professor Omenugha, who has been serving in an acting capacity, received her appointment letter from Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, Secretary to the State Government, in a symbolic handover attended by state officials and university stakeholders.
According to Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the confirmation followed a thorough and merit-based selection process, underlining the administration’s commitment to credible appointments across critical institutions in the state.
“Professor Omenugha’s confirmation follows her exemplary performance during her tenure as Acting Vice Chancellor, a period characterized by positive institutional changes and visionary leadership that have positioned COOU for greater academic excellence and innovation,” Aburime stated.
Soludo Endorses Merit, Institutional Stability
Governor Soludo, while commenting on the development, reaffirmed the state’s unwavering dedication to educational excellence and strategic institutional governance. He noted that the decision to appoint Professor Omenugha was based on a combination of merit, vision, and proven capacity to drive transformation in higher education.
“Our administration believes in strengthening the foundations of our institutions through sound leadership. Professor Omenugha has proven herself beyond doubt—her commitment, innovations, and leadership ethos speak for themselves,” Soludo said.
He added, “We are confident that under her guidance, COOU will continue to soar, setting benchmarks for academic achievement and student-focused development.”
Broad Stakeholder Support for Omenugha’s Leadership
Stakeholders across Anambra’s education landscape have praised the governor’s decision, describing the appointment as a strategic step toward consolidating the university’s progress. Many highlighted Professor Omenugha’s administrative acumen, people-centered leadership, and alignment with the broader vision of educational transformation in the state.
In her tenure as Acting Vice Chancellor, Omenugha championed initiatives that improved staff morale, strengthened academic programs, and improved community engagement—earning her widespread support among faculty and students alike.
Her appointment has been seen as a victory for institutional continuity and gender inclusion in academic leadership.
A Trailblazing Academic with Vision
Professor Kate Omenugha brings decades of experience in academia, policy, and administration. A respected scholar and administrator, she has served in various capacities within the university system, known for promoting excellence, transparency, and inclusive governance.
She is expected to build on ongoing reforms, including staff development, research expansion, digital learning tools, and infrastructural improvements.
With her confirmation, COOU stakeholders anticipate a new era of growth, innovation, and stability.
Education
Maltina Nourishment Tour Visits Tomike Adeoye’s Former School as Brand Marks 50 Years
Maltina has expanded its nationwide Nourishment Tour to Maverick College in Ibadan, the alma mater of brand ambassador Tomike Adeoye, as the malt drink brand continues activities marking its 50th anniversary in Nigeria.
The event, held on 4 May 2026, combined science education, nutrition awareness, and entertainment, with students participating in interactive STEM-based learning sessions focused on healthy nourishment and cognitive development.
According to Maltina, the Nourishment Tour has already reached more than 227,000 students across Nigeria through school visits and popup activations, as the company works toward its target of impacting one million young Nigerians.
Why the initiative matters
Nutrition experts and educators have increasingly linked proper nourishment to improved concentration, memory retention, and academic performance among school-age children.
Maltina’s latest activation sought to simplify those ideas for students through practical science demonstrations conducted in partnership with STEM Africa.
Students at Maverick College participated in experiments designed to show how nutrients support focus, growth, and learning outcomes. Organisers said the approach was aimed at helping students connect everyday nutrition choices with classroom performance and personal development.
The programme also highlighted nutrients such as Vitamins A, B, and C, alongside Calcium, which Maltina says are contained in its beverage products.
Tomike Adeoye returns to her former school
For many students, the highlight of the event was the appearance of Tomike Adeoye, who returned to her former school as part of the campaign.
Known for her energetic online presence and youth-focused content, Adeoye encouraged students to participate actively throughout the sessions, while speaking about confidence, learning, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Her involvement reflects a wider trend among Nigerian brands using influencers and public figures to strengthen engagement with younger audiences, particularly in education and lifestyle campaigns.
“The impact we are seeing across schools reflects the power of using STEM engagement to explain the science of nourishment makes learning come alive and easy to understand,” said Elohor Olumide-Awe, Portfolio Manager, Non-Alcoholic Brands at Nigerian Breweries Plc.
“Across the different schools we have visited, the level of curiosity and engagement from the students has been remarkable. And as Maltina marks 50 years, initiatives like the Nourishment Tour remain central to our commitment to helping young Nigerians understand the strong link between nourishment, Science and the learning outcomes.”
Growing competition around youth engagement
The campaign comes at a time when consumer brands in Nigeria are investing more heavily in school-based engagement programmes and experiential marketing to connect with younger audiences.
Industry analysts say brands are increasingly combining education, entertainment, and social impact messaging to remain relevant among families and Gen Z consumers.
For Maltina, the Nourishment Tour also reinforces its long-running positioning around family wellbeing and healthy living, while strengthening visibility during its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Parents and schools have been encouraged to register or nominate schools for future activations through the official Maltina platform.
What happens next?
Maltina says the Nourishment Tour will continue across different states in Nigeria in the coming months, with additional school activations planned as part of the company’s broader anniversary campaign.
The company said it intends to expand participation levels while promoting science-based learning experiences tied to nutrition and wellbeing.
Education
9-Year-Old Lagos Author Launches Tola The Bully to Fight Bullying in Schools
Nine-year-old Nigerian author, Adedoyin Precious Shanu, has officially launched her debut book, Tola The Bully, a children’s story aimed at promoting kindness, courage and respect among young people.
The launch event, held in Baruwa, Ipaja area of Lagos, drew parents, teachers, classmates and education advocates who praised the young writer for addressing bullying and poor behaviour among children through literature.
The 60-page book, which contains 10 chapters and review questions at the end of each chapter, follows the story of a wealthy girl named Tola who mistreats classmates, teachers and domestic workers before eventually changing her behaviour.
The story explores themes of parenting, empathy, discipline and personal transformation.
A Young Author Using Stories to Inspire Change
Speaking during the launch, Adedoyin said the book was inspired by the growing problem of bullying among children.
She explained that she wanted young readers to understand the importance of standing up for what is right and treating others with kindness.
“Children should stop bullying, stand up for the right things and be kind and courageous,” she said.
The young author also revealed that children themselves inspired her writing journey and disclosed plans to write more books in the future.
The back cover of the book describes Tola The Bully as “a story of kindness, courage and change,” while encouraging children to reject bullying and embrace compassion.
Inside the Story of Tola The Bully
The colourful cover design features a school setting with illustrations of students, visually reinforcing the book’s anti-bullying message.
The main character, Tola, is portrayed as a wealthy and beautiful girl who believes her family’s status places her above others.
According to reviewers at the launch, the character frequently bullies classmates and domestic staff while displaying disrespectful behaviour both at home and at school.
But the story takes a different turn after Tola is suspended from school and her parents realise they have neglected her emotional and moral development.
With guidance from a therapist, Tola begins to change her behaviour and eventually becomes an advocate against bullying.
Education commentator, Ms Winning Harry described the story as a strong reminder that parental involvement is essential in raising responsible children.
She said the book highlights how career pressures and absentee parenting can contribute to behavioural problems in children.
“People can change with proper guidance and support,” she noted.
Another reviewer, Ms Annabelle Uduaghan, praised the book for addressing bullying and social bias in a way children can easily understand.
“The positive aspect of the story is that Sala was able to change,” she said. “It shows that people can improve and become better.”
She also commended the visual presentation of the book, saying the cover and illustrations make it attractive and engaging for young readers.
Mother Says Writing Talent Started at Age Four
Adedoyin’s mother, Mrs Lola Valentine Shanu, said her daughter began showing signs of exceptional creativity from an early age.
According to her, the young author often preferred writing stories to watching cartoons or playing games.
“She would stay up writing late into the night,” Mrs Shanu said, adding that she first noticed her daughter’s storytelling abilities at about four years old.
The idea to publish a book became stronger after they attended another child’s book launch several years ago.
Mrs Shanu encouraged parents to identify and nurture their children’s talents early.
“Pay attention to your children’s gifts and help them develop those talents,” she advised.
She expressed hope that her daughter would continue writing books that inspire future generations.
School Proprietress Calls for Wider Adoption in Schools
The Proprietress of Green Apple School, Baruwa, Mrs Bunmi Ola-King, described Adedoyin as an exceptional child who has displayed unusual intelligence since infancy.
She said the school operates a strict anti-bullying policy and actively teaches kindness and empathy among pupils.
According to her, bullying remains a major concern in schools and society, making books like Tola The Bully especially relevant.
“Children should respond with kindness, not violence,” she said.
Mrs Ola-King also urged education authorities in Lagos State to consider recommending the book for use in primary schools.
She said the story could help children better understand the emotional impact of bullying and encourage healthier relationships among classmates.
Why the Story Matters
Bullying has become a growing concern in schools globally, with educators and child psychologists warning about its long-term effects on children’s mental health, confidence and academic performance.
Experts say storytelling remains one of the most effective ways to teach moral lessons to young readers because children often relate emotionally to fictional characters.
By writing Tola The Bully, Adedoyin joins a growing number of young Nigerian creatives using literature to address social issues affecting children and families.
The book’s emphasis on parental presence, emotional support and behavioural guidance also resonated strongly with parents at the launch event.
What’s Next for the Young Author?
Adedoyin said she plans to continue writing and hopes her stories will inspire more children to choose kindness over cruelty.
Those close to the family believe Tola The Bully could be the beginning of a promising literary journey for the young Lagos author.
To purchase a copy of the book, do visit Amazon to get a copy for yourself and loved ones.
Education
Police, JAMB Arrest Three Over Alleged UTME Exam Hacking Syndicate in Delta
The Nigeria Police Force and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) say they have uncovered a sophisticated examination malpractice syndicate accused of compromising the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Delta State.
According to authorities, three suspects were arrested following intelligence-led operations linked to alleged cyber-assisted examination fraud at the College of Education, Warri.
Police said the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue into what officials described as a wider network targeting Nigeria’s computer-based examination system.
How the alleged malpractice was uncovered
In a statement issued on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, said investigators discovered that unauthorized remote access was gained into candidates’ computer systems during the examination.
The operation, carried out jointly with JAMB, reportedly followed digital forensic investigations into attempts to manipulate the examination process.
“Unauthorized remote access was illegally gained into candidates’ computer systems while the exercise was ongoing,” the statement said.
Authorities believe additional examination centres may also have been involved in similar activities.
As a result, JAMB has withdrawn results from affected centres pending the outcome of investigations.
Candidates affected by the decision are expected to sit for a mop-up examination in line with existing procedures.
Why it matters
The UTME is Nigeria’s main entrance examination for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Any breach of the examination system could affect thousands of students and raise broader concerns about the integrity of computer-based testing in the country.
In recent years, JAMB has invested heavily in technology and biometric verification systems to reduce impersonation and examination malpractice.
However, cyber-assisted fraud and remote system manipulation remain emerging threats as criminal networks adopt more sophisticated digital methods.
Education analysts say the latest development highlights the growing need for stronger cybersecurity measures in Nigeria’s examination system.
Reactions and public concerns
Parents and students have expressed concerns online over the withdrawal of examination results, particularly for candidates who may not have been directly involved in malpractice.
Some education stakeholders have also called for transparency in the ongoing investigations to ensure innocent candidates are not unfairly penalised.
Police warning to examination centres
The Nigeria Police Force warned candidates, operators of examination centres, and collaborators against engaging in examination malpractice or cyber-related fraud.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting criminal networks seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system,” the statement added.
The police did not disclose the identities of the arrested suspects or provide details of the specific technology allegedly used in the operation.
What happens next?
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities expected to determine the full scope of the alleged malpractice network.
JAMB is also likely to intensify monitoring and cybersecurity checks across examination centres nationwide ahead of future examinations and mop-up tests.
For affected candidates, the board says rescheduled examinations will be conducted according to established procedures.
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