The University of Nigeria Alumni Association has elected Dr. Chinedu Mbalisi, an Associate Professor in History and International Studies, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and the President of Awka chapter of the Association, as its new National Secretary.
The election took place during the association’s 119 National Executive Council Delegate’s Meeting and 29 Biennial convention held at Rocharlas Hotels, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Dr. Mbalisi expressed gratitude and enthusiasm over his emergence, describing the position as both an honour and a responsibility.
He noted that the role spans coordination across international branches, including those in the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada. “Leadership is a call to service,” he said. “I am now tasked with the mandate to serve the union, graduates of UNN, and Nigeria in particular. The motto – to Restore the Dignity of Man is what we are committed to upholding throughout my years in office.”
Dr. Mbalisi highlighted the strength and influence of UNAA as a global network of professionals, noting that its membership continues to grow due to its impact. “It is a powerful organisation. Members are proud to belong, and those outside aspire to join. It is fulfilling to see graduates unite, network, and support one another in building society,” he added.
Reflecting on his four-year tenure as Awka branch president, he described the experience as rewarding, emphasizing the relationships and opportunities it created for positive societal impact.
He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering unity and harnessing the potential of members to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The UNIZIK Don, further stressed the importance of giving back to the alma mater, the University of Nigeria, which he credited for shaping graduates into who they are today. “We will continue to provide impactful leadership and contribute to the growth of Nigeria at large,” he said.
Dr. Mbalisi, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, also encouraged graduates from all institutions to actively participate in alumni associations. According to him, such platforms offer opportunities to serve humanity while supporting educational institutions and community development.
In her remarks, the Vice President of UNAA Awka branch and Professor of Igbo Language at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nkechinyere Nwaokoye, commended Dr. Mbalisi’s dedication and leadership qualities. She described his election as well-deserved.
“Dr. Mbalisi is a committed alumnus with the capacity for leadership. I am not surprised by his victory; it is a commendable achievement,” she said.
Prof. Nwaokoye, however, urged him to sustain and surpass his previous performance. “He must remain proactive, dedicated, and avoid complacency. I expect him to perform even better than he did as a branch president and rise to greater heights, possibly becoming the national president in the future,” she added.
The convention was attended by several delegates, including Mr. Tony Chidiebere Akalawo, Comrade Ogemdi Ozoemena, Mr. Ugochukwu Anigbogu, Comrade Uchenna Ezeadigwe, and Mr. Eagle Duru, among others.
Meanwhile the events hosted top academians, Government officials, Royal Majesties and traditional rulers. With the Theme: “Ethical Leadership: the strategic role of Alumni in strengthening Nigerians Democracy”.
Others elected include: Dr. Sanusi Kani – National President, Prof Ancelem Onyimonyi – Deputy National President, Dr. Chinedu Maduba Esq, – National Legal Adviser, Dr. Anuli Aguiyi- National Treasurer, Past. Chikezie Uchenna- National Assistant Secretary, and Mr. Obiajulu Ikechukwu – National PRO, among others.
