At inaugural lecture, Chukwu, Ihedioha, Izunaso, Kayode, others commend Nasarawa varsity’s sustainable academic growth

An Imo born industry expert in the oil sector, Dr. Ejike Chukwu, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, senator representing Imo West Senatorial District, Sen. Osita Izunaso, and a former Ambassador to Brazil, Amb. Kayode Garrick, were among A- list dignitaries that attended the 50th Inaugural Lecture of Nasarawa State University, in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

The landmark 50th Inaugural Lecture, on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025, was delivered by Professor Uche Uwaleke, a renowned scholar and Nigeria’s first Professor of Capital Market Studies, with the title: “Unlocking Wealth and Leveraging Entreprenurial Knowledge Ecosystems: Understanding Capital Harnessing Essentials.”

While inaugural lectures are formal academic occasions where scholars or professors present their research works, academic journey, and vision for their field, signifying their official induction into the academic community. The event marked a significant contribution by Prof. Uwaleke to the advancement of capital market education in Nigeria.

Uwaleke, who is also the President of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, used the opportunity to showcase his research and key contributions to the development of Nigeria’s financial markets, keeping his audience glued to his well researched presentation as they got captivated by his oratory and expertise in the subject matter.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of Megadril Nig. Ltd, a leading indigenous oil servicing company,
Dr. Ejike Chukwu, said the topic of the inaugural lecture underscored the significance of public enlightenment and education about the strategic role of Nigeria’s Capital Market in enhancing economic growth through entrepreneurship and knowledge- based awareness of the systematic operations of sector’s ecosystem.

Chukwu, however, maintained that the lecture provided valuable insights into the changes, challenges, dynamics, complexities, past- and present performance index of Nigeria’s Capital Market, offering practical solutions for policy makers, stakeholders, industry experts, analysts, and the general public.

Chairman of Inaugural Lecture Committee, Prof. O.J. Jayeoba and the Vice- Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, expressed gratitude about the lecture, saying: “We are honoured to have one of our best, Prof. Uwaleke delivered our 50th inaugural lecture. His industry expertise in the Nigerian Capital Market undoubtedly provided a nuanced understanding of the critical issues surrounding the workings, dynamics , and systematic operations of the market.”

Publisher of Fourth Estate Reporters, Njoku Macdonald Obinna, commended the vice- chancellor for his deliberate efforts in promoting scholarships and encouraging inaugural lectures as part of his commitments in repositioning and making Nasarawa State University one of the best institutions in Africa.

Dr. Ejike Chukwu was also commended for his attendance at such a scholarly event and related developmental events that promote peace, unity, good governance, youth empowerment, and socio-economic engagements in Imo State and beyond.

A distinguished array of dignitaries that attended the event included Nigeria’s Vice President, Sen. Kashim shettima, represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Director General, Security and Exchange Commission, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, and Chairman, Security and Exchange Commission, Dr. Mairiga Aliyu Katuka, among others.

Professor Uche Uwaleke, is a Fellow of several professional bodies including the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, the Institute of Capital Market Registrars, and the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria.

He is also a full member of the Nigerian Economic Society.

A former Commissioner for Finance in Imo State, Uwaleke has also served as the Chief Economist and Director of Research at the Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria.