Nto: Iwe’s Tenure Marked a Turning Point for MOUAU

Dr. Philips Nto has delivered a sweeping and impassioned tribute to the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Maduebibisi Iwe, lauding what he described as a defining era of transformation, stability and renewal.
Nto, Director of the Agribusiness Incubation Centre, spoke on Friday as Iwe formally handed over the reins of leadership, closing what he characterised as five years of bold reforms and uncommon administrative dexterity.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Iwe handed over to Prof. Ursula Akanwa, who is set to be inaugurated on Monday as the university’s first female and seventh Vice-Chancellor — a historic milestone in the institution’s over three-decade history.
In a tribute rich with admiration, Nto described Iwe as “a cerebral academic and astute administrator” whose tenure left an indelible imprint on the university’s landscape.
According to him, Iwe’s leadership ignited sweeping infrastructural renewal, deepened academic standards, restored social stability and entrenched lasting peace across campus.
He noted that under Iwe’s watch, the university achieved a breakthrough that had eluded it for more than 30 years — securing its certificate of occupancy — while also commencing work on its long-awaited permanent site.
Nto said Iwe confronted deep-seated institutional fractures head-on. He inherited more than 100 court cases, many stemming from staff grievances over promotions and internal disputes. Yet, through what Nto described as tact, diplomacy and unwavering commitment to fairness, the cases were resolved and harmony restored between management and staff.
“I was particularly impressed by his diplomacy in handling staff welfare,” Nto said. “He chose engagement over alienation, consultation over coercion.”
Even in his dealings with the governing council, Nto observed, Iwe “chose peace over confrontation and consistently placed the university’s interest above personal inclination.”
On recruitment, Nto described the recent exercise as a watershed moment for institutional integrity.
“Every appointment was earned on merit, not secured through influence. Due process was not merely observed — it was defended. Nepotism was eliminated,” he said.
Nto further hailed Iwe as “a true son of Abia” who made the state proud through exemplary service.
“He assumed office nearly 15 years after an Abia son last held the position and discharged his assignment with distinction,” he said. “He made the difference. He leaves behind enduring legacies.”
While commending his service to the university, Abia State and Nigeria at large, Nto urged Iwe to remain available for national assignments, saying leaders of his calibre remain invaluable to the country’s development.