Imo State, June 22, 2026: In a significant event for the Mbaise community, Prof. Eddie Oparaoji, Chairman of the Mbaise Policy Roundtable (MPR), attended the inaugural Thanksgiving Mass officiated by His Grace ArchBishop Lucius Ugorji, for Prof. Ikechukwu Nosike Simplicius Dozie, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). The celebration took place at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Chaplaincy at FUTO, which was established by another notable son of Mbaise, the former Vice Chancellor, Prof. C.O.E. Onwuliri, and his wife, Her Excellency Prof. Viola Onwuliri. This occasion marked a pivotal transition as Prof. Dozie officially succeeded Prof. Nnenna Oti on June 18.
Prof. Oparaoji extended heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Dozie, expressing profound appreciation for his appointment and pledging to collaborate closely to uplift the Mbaise and Imo State communities. He described Prof. Dozie as an esteemed member of the MPR and a distinguished son of Mbaise, highlighting the anticipation surrounding his leadership, which is expected to usher in an era of innovation and development at FUTO.
As a recognized scholar and strategist, Prof. Dozie is well-positioned to enhance FUTO’s reputation as a top-tier institution, drawing on his extensive experience in academia and administration. His vision aligns seamlessly with the MPR’s mission to foster development through strategic partnerships, emphasizing the importance of aligning educational policies with the needs of the community.
The MPR, a prominent advisory council for Mbaise based in both New York and Imo State, is eager to collaborate with Prof. Dozie. Members are confident that his tenure will lead to significant advancements in research, community engagement, and local development initiatives. This partnership aims to harness the collective potential of Mbaise, positioning the region at the forefront of educational and technological advancement.
Other key MPR members in attendance included Prof. Mrs. Viola Onwuliri, Barr Dr Maxwell Opara, High Chief Emeka Dozie, Hon. Uche Agomuo, Mr. Moses Nwagwu, and Mr. Ikechukwu Anyanwu.
As Prof. Dozie embarks on this pivotal journey, the MPR stands ready to support his endeavors, inviting all stakeholders to join in this collaborative effort for community empowerment and a shared vision for success. The future of FUTO and the Mbaise community shines brightly under his leadership.
