Opinion
By Valentine Obienyem
I have received the post below from many people over the past day, and what struck me most was that virtually every comment that followed it was positive. Many came from former students and staff who testified to Professor Fidelis Uzochukwu Okafor’s integrity, discipline, and transformational leadership.
At a time when public discussions about some lecturers are regrettably dominated by allegations of sexual harassment, extortion, and the shameful practice students commonly refer to as “sorting,” it is refreshing to see an academic being celebrated for the exact opposite. We need to celebrate men like Professor Okafor, whose legacy is defined by character, competence, and service.
The post also highlights Peter Obi’s remarkable ability to identify capable people and entrust them with responsibility.
The Post by Aloefuna Chinonso
“One of the Men Peter Obi Used
This is Professor Fidelis Uzochukwu Okafor. Professor Okafor was the man Mr. Peter Obi entrusted with the task of placing Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, on the path of development. The institution was in a deplorable state before the then Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, brought him from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to serve as Provost.
Professor Okafor delivered exactly what Obi expected. He transformed the academic environment and made it conducive to learning. He confronted academic extortion and dealt firmly with lecturers who exploited students. He improved security on campus and expanded infrastructure, including establishing, through a partnership with AfriHub in 2009, an ICT facility that was unprecedented in the institution.
He invited distinguished professors to serve as visiting lecturers, something many believe has not been replicated since his tenure. He encouraged night studies by ensuring electricity was available from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. In every sense, he changed the story of Nwafor Orizu College of Education.
When his achievements became evident, Peter Obi again entrusted him with another challenge, appointing him to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, where he was widely credited with driving further improvements in the institution.
His example demonstrates that with visionary leadership and competent administrators, educational institutions can be transformed.
It also raises a broader question: if such progress was possible then, what is preventing similar transformations in our educational institutions today?
Many Nigerians believe that genuine investment in quality education remains one of the surest paths to sustainable development. The earlier we collectively demand better educational standards for our children, the brighter our future will be.”
Whether one agrees with every opinion expressed in the original post or not, the overwhelming positive reactions it has attracted reinforce an important truth: when competent, ethical, and visionary individuals are entrusted with public responsibility, their impact speaks for itself. Such men and women deserve not only recognition but also emulation.
Obi’s leadership attracts the likes of Professors Okafor, just as PBAT’s leadership attracts the likes of Gbajabiamila and those capable of setting up ghost agencies.
A.I
July 25, 2026
Tags: Peter Obi Professor Fidelis Okafor Valentine Obienyem