Overview and History of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

 
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, stands as one of the country’s prominent federal universities, distinguished by its vibrant blend of academic rigour, research activities and social relevance. Since its establishment, UNIZIK has played a key role in shaping higher education in southeastern Nigeria, offering young men and women the chance not only to pursue degrees but to engage in leadership, community service and innovation. With a multi-campus structure and a growing portfolio of faculties and programmes, the university serves as both a local anchor of educational advancement and a platform for national and global impact. Located along the Onitsha–Enugu Expressway in Awka as its main base, UNIZIK’s environment is one that seeks to combine scholarly life with a sense of responsiveness to societal needs. The institution emphasises not just the acquisition of knowledge, but the application of that knowledge in ways that contribute to regional growth and national development. The community of students, staff and alumni alike are encouraged to think beyond their individual disciplines and to engage in multidisciplinary thinking, research, innovation and service.

As more students seek universities that provide not only quality academic credentials but also opportunities for personal growth, leadership and social impact, UNIZIK presents itself as a compelling choice. This blog post delves into the key aspects of the university—its website and online presence, motto, founder, history, chancellorship, accreditation and recognition, academic structure and facilities, campus life, and some of its notable alumni—so that prospective students, parents, educators and the general public can better understand what this institution offers.

##Official Website
The official website of the university is www.unizik.edu.ngOn this portal, visitors can access details about admissions, academic programmes, news, events, calendars, registration portals, research information and alumni engagement. The site serves both as a gateway for prospective students and as a central hub for the campus community to stay informed about ongoing developments

##Motto
The motto of UNIZIK is “Discipline, Self-Reliance and Excellence.” This succinct phrase captures three fundamental pillars of the institution’s philosophy: Discipline – emphasising personal and collective responsibility, ethical conduct and committed work. Self-Reliance – encouraging students and staff to develop capabilities, independence of thought and resourcefulness.
Excellence – aiming for high standards in teaching, research, service and overall institutional performance. These values serve as guiding principles for the university culture and are reflected in its academic and extra-curricular programmes.

##Founder
While the name of a single “founder” is not commonly cited, the university is named after Nnamdi Azikiwe (often referred to as “Zik of Africa”), Nigeria’s first President and an eminent statesman who championed education, nationalism and self-determination. The university seeks to evoke his legacy in its mission. 

UNIZIK emerged out of the former Anambra State University of Technology (ASUTECH) and became a federal institution in 1992. Although the “founder” in the sense of an individual academic is not a singular figure, the founding enactments were driven by state and federal government legislation. 

##History
The history of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is one of transformation, growth and adapting to the changing demands of higher education in Nigeria. It began with the defunct Anambra State University of Technology (ASUTECH), which was established by the old Anambra State Government on 30 July 1980 under Law No. 7. ASUTECH operated as a multi-campus university with sites in Awka, Nnewi, Abakiliki and Enugu. 

In November 1991, following the division of the old Anambra State into Anambra and Enugu States, the Awka and Nnewi campuses of ASUTECH were constituted into Nnamdi Azikiwe University by Anambra State Edict No. 5 of 26 November 1991. 

The federal government subsequently took over the institution through Decree No. 34 of 15 July 1992 (now part of the Laws of the Federation).

From its early years, UNIZIK expanded its academic programmes and developed its identity. For example, its Faculty of Law admitted its first set of students in 1985 (while still under ASUTECH), and later became part of the university after full transformation. 

Over time the institution has grown in infrastructure, student population, and research output. Acknowledged in a recent internal review, the university under one past administration completed its master plan, upgraded its permanent site, fenced and demarcated its grounds, and expanded its faculties. 

Today, UNIZIK stands as a federal university with multiple campuses—Awka (main campus), Nnewi (medical/health sciences), Ifite-Ogwuari and Agulu. 

Its evolution reflects the efforts of the Nigerian higher-education sector to deliver accessible, quality tertiary education and to link scholarship with societal development.

##Chancellor
The Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is His Majesty Dr. Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Gbong Gwon Jos and head of the Joint Traditional Council of Chiefs in Plateau State. 

Brief Biography:
Dr. Jacob Gyang Buba is a traditional ruler from Plateau State, Nigeria, who has been appointed as the Chancellor of UNIZIK. In his ceremonial capacity, he presides over convocations, awards honorary degrees and acts as a figurehead in promoting the university’s image. At the 19th convocation ceremony of UNIZIK, he addressed the institution and commended its academic achievements, urging the leadership to sustain high standards.

While his role is largely ceremonial rather than day-to-day management (which is handled by the Vice-Chancellor and other officers), his presence reinforces the university’s cultural and national linkages.

##Accreditation and Recognition
Nnamdi Azikiwe University is recognised by Nigeria’s regulatory bodies and operates within the federal university framework. According to available information:

The institution is listed on the World Higher Education Database (WHED) of the International Association of Universities, indicating recognition in international academic listings. 

Its programmes in various faculties are subject to accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria, as is required for federal universities. For instance, an internal review mentions that engineering programmes obtained accreditation in June 1999. 
Federal Ministry of Education

These points indicate that degrees from UNIZIK are legitimately recognised in Nigeria and can be accepted for further study or employment, so long as students meet other professional or accreditation standards where applicable.


##Academic Structure and Facilities
The academic structure and facilities at UNIZIK are extensive, reflecting its status as a full-fledged federal university with diverse faculties and infrastructural investments. Below are several key features:

Multiple Faculties and Departments – UNIZIK hosts many faculties such as 

Agriculture

Arts

Basic Medical Sciences

Biosciences

Education

Engineering

Environmental Sciences

Health Sciences & Technology

Law

Management Sciences

Medicine

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Physical Sciences

Social Sciences 


##Campus Life and Facilities
Campus life at UNIZIK presents a dynamic mix of academic, social, cultural and co-curricular activity. Some of the key features include:

Residential and Non-Residential Options: The university has accommodation and facilities for students on the main and satellite campuses; living on or near campus fosters engagement in campus life.

Learning Environments: Lecture theatres, departmental buildings, laboratories, libraries and study centres are available to support students’ academic work, including e-library access, modern ICT facilities and departmental resources.

Health, Sports and Recreation: As with many universities, UNIZIK provides sports fields, gymnasia, and recreational facilities where students can engage in athletics, cultural events and other extracurricular activities. The campus culture acknowledges the importance of holistic student development.

Industrial Work Experience and Entrepreneurship: Through the SIWES unit, students gain exposure to work placements and entrepreneurial skills—broadening their practical and career-readiness beyond the classroom

Youth and Student Engagement: Student unions, departmental clubs, alumni links, seminars, conferences and convocation events form part of campus life. For example, the 19th convocation ceremony held in 2025 was a major event bringing together graduates, faculty, alumni and leaders. 

Safety, Campus Infrastructure and Growth: The university leadership emphasises upgrading/upkeep of facilities across campuses (e.g., at Nnewi campus) and ensuring that the physical environment supports learning and research.

Multiple Campuses and Locations: Students may find themselves at various locations (Awka main campus, Nnewi, Agulu, Ifite Ogwuari), offering different campus experiences depending on discipline. This multi-campus structure contributes to diversity in student experience.