Former lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has commended the management of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), for establishing its Business School, describing the initiative as a legacy project capable of stimulating economic growth in Abia State and beyond.
Speaking during the official launch of the MOUAU Business School at Umudike, Onuigbo reflected on what he described as a long and determined struggle to protect and restore key academic programmes previously delisted by the Federal Government.
He recalled that during his tenure at the House of Representatives, he embarked on sustained advocacy to ensure that affected courses were reinstated, noting that it took nine years of persistent engagement with relevant authorities before the programmes were fully restored.
According to him, the establishment of the Business School marks a new chapter in the institution’s history and represents a strategic move to broaden its academic and professional offerings.
Onuigbo observed that Abia State does not have a conventional university structure offering a wide range of non-agricultural professional courses, adding that the Business School would help bridge that gap by providing programmes typically found in conventional universities.
He further noted that the new school would enhance the institution’s image and reposition it for greater national and global relevance.
“When we talk about Business Schools, we are referring to institutions that teach sustainability, innovation, and strategic networking. We must build and sustain networks with individuals and organisations that can contribute meaningfully to the growth of this school. It is expected to play a global role, and the board has a duty to ensure that this vision is realised”.
Onuigbo, who currently serves as the South-East representative on the board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), urged the management and board members of the Business School to work diligently to meet public expectations and maintain high standards.
He expressed optimism that the Business School would serve as a catalyst for business expansion in Abia State, fostering entrepreneurship, strengthening corporate governance practices, and attracting investments that would expand the state’s economic frontiers.
He expressed appreciation for his induction into the Board of the Business School, College of Management Sciences (COLMAS), describing it as a significant recognition of his contributions to the institution’s continuous growth and development, adding that he had consistently supported the university’s progress and would continue to do so.
National Ambassador Newspaper gathered that the launch of the MOUAU Business School is perceived as part of broader efforts by the university’s management to diversify academic programmes and align its offerings with contemporary economic and professional demands.
