Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) have entered into a historic academic partnership to boost research, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
The agreement was formally sealed on Monday, 25th August 2025, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Office of NSUK through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. It provides a framework for staff exchange, joint research, and other areas of mutual benefit.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of NSUK, Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Fellow; UNESCO ACLS FIIFPN, expressed delight over the partnership. She reaffirmed NSUK’s commitment to work with universities that value mentorship, innovation, and academic development.
Professor Liman said the university’s achievements were possible through divine guidance and the dedication of her management team. She also outlined the key areas of focus under the MoU.
According to her, the partnership will cover research and innovation, idea exchange, infrastructural development, investment opportunities, scholarships, and staff and student exchange programs.
She further announced that NSUK will soon embark on a reciprocal visit to COOU to deepen the collaboration and learn from its academic practices.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, praised NSUK for its contributions to knowledge sharing and resource development. She said this collaborative spirit had helped COOU secure a €400,000 Erasmus+ grant, a significant boost for research funding and academic exchange.
Professor Omenugha noted the unique bond she shares with Professor Liman as the first female and fifth substantive Vice-Chancellors of their respective institutions.
She commended Professor Liman’s visionary leadership, describing her as a transformative leader raising academic standards. She emphasized that the MoU would foster community-based research, innovation, cultural integration, and stronger institutional growth.
The highlight of the event was the formal signing and exchange of the MoU. Professor Liman presented souvenirs to the COOU delegation, while Professor Omenugha’s team offered reciprocal gifts to NSUK.
The ceremony ended with a guided tour of the Senate Building and a group photograph to commemorate the historic engagement.