In a recent interview with the leadership at Clifford University (CLU) in Owerrinta, Abia State, it became clear that the institution is marking significant academic strides just seven years after its establishment by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which is also known for founding Babcock University.
During its fifth convocation ceremony, CLU celebrated the achievement of 269 graduates, with a noteworthy 31 earning first-class honors. The Nursing Sciences department stood out with nine first-class graduates, followed closely by six from Christian Religious Studies and four from Microbiology.
Professor Chimezie Omeonu, the Vice-Chancellor, outlined the university’s impressive growth during our conversation. “From our humble beginnings, we’ve observed over 100 percent growth in various aspects,” he stated. He recalled that CLU began its journey on March 5, 2017, with just three faculties, 10 departments, and 15 degree programs, describing the launch as both significant and historic.
Today, CLU has expanded to include six faculties, 30 departments, and 34 degree programs, with student enrollment skyrocketing from an initial 86 to 1,500. Omeonu drew attention to the successful launch of the Department of Nursing Sciences, which graduated its first cohort this year, producing 67 registered nurses. These graduates achieved an impressive 81.71 percent pass rate in the Registered Nurse exam administered by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, surpassing the national average of 73 percent. Additionally, they achieved a perfect pass rate in the Registered Midwife exam, which has a national average of 91 percent.
Omeonu also shared the exciting news that the Law Faculty is now fully operational and awaiting accreditation from the Council of Legal Education, alongside plans for establishing a postgraduate school in the near future.
In terms of quality assurance for parents and employers, Omeonu stressed that CLU graduates meet high standards, having trained in programs accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA). He emphasized the university’s dedication to involving parents in the educational process, introducing the Parents Advisory Council (PAC) on June 8, 2023, to promote collaboration in shaping students’ character and overall development.
He encouraged parents to stay engaged with their children’s academic progress, urging them, “Engage with them daily and show your interest in their well-being.”
Pastor (Prof) Bassey Udoh, the pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing board, inspired graduates to take on responsibility and become beacons of pride for their families and communities. He reminded them, “Having successfully navigated CLU and emerged as qualified individuals, it’s now your turn to give back to society by being teachable, humble, and productive.”
Dr. Ezebunwa Ubani, who chaired the ceremonies and honors committee, affirmed that CLU has become a top choice for parents seeking quality university education for their children. He highlighted the institution’s commitment to combining academic excellence with moral values, solidifying its status as one of Nigeria’s leading universities in producing graduates with strong character and education.
