The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, has been fortified to enhance agricultural researches and training of agriculture graduates as part of its statutory mandates.

This development follows the re-modelling and retrofitting of the University’s Chemistry Laboratory by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Eunisell Nigeria Ltd, Dr Chika Ikenga.

While handing over the laboratory to the university, Dr Ikenga described Chemistry as the ‘Subject of Life’ that is crucial in agricultural activities, especially in the areas of producing agro-chemicals, fertilisers, raw materials, storage and preservation of post- harvests, among others.

Dr Ikenga therefore encouraged the study of Chemistry, stressing that without it, agriculture would not thrive while the entire world would not have been how it is today with respect to agriculture and food availability.

He urged students of Chemistry to persevere and study it, predicting that their successful graduation as agriculturists/food scientists will earn them viable means of livelihood and successes thereafter, pointing out that without agriculture and education, no society can progress desirably.

Dr. Ikenga told The Guardian that his motivation to embark on the facelift for laboratory was as a result of his desire to keep chemistry alive and appreciate its rich positive impact on his life and the society, and promote agriculture.

He also noted the strategic role chemistry would play in research and training of agriculture professionals in the MOUAU that admits and trains agriculture professionals from across the entire country, who will after graduation engage in professional practices that will positively impact products availability, the attainment of food security, as well as end hunger.

The MOUAU Vice Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, who applauded Ikenga’s gesture, described chemistry as the centre of science.
He said: “We are very happy and elated to receive this new laboratory gift from Dr Ikenga who took his time and made this laboratory look as it is, with top-notch facilities.”
Also, the Acting Head of the Chemistry Department, Dr Okenwa Uchenna Igwe, while commending Ikenga’s generosity, said: “We are thrilled that today has come and we give Dr Ikenga the kudos for coming to add value to our current students and future ones”.
It was gathered that Igwe, the acting Head, Department of Veterinary Biochemistry and Animal Production, played a major role of introducing Dr Ikenga for the Honorary Doctoral Degree awarded him in 2021 and his rebuilding the university’s industrial chemistry laboratory.