The First Female PRO of UNIZIK: A Specimen of Excellence in Public Service

By Gabriel Chy Alonta

In the corridors of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, there exists a luminary whose tenure has left an indelible mark on the institution’s reputation and standing. Mrs. Chikaodinaka Gladys Ijeoma Ene, the distinguished Acting Information and Public Relations and Chief Protocol Officer, has epitomized excellence, resilience, and dedication throughout her illustrious career spanning over four years.

During her tenure, Mrs. Ene, with her innate flair for media relations and exceptional leadership skills, steered the university through turbulent waters, adeptly navigating crises and emerging victorious, with the university’s image shining brighter than ever before. Despite the challenges that besieged her, she remained steadfast, embodying the values of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the university’s cause.

Known for her down-to-earth demeanor, Mrs. Ene’s unassuming nature belies her extraordinary achievements. As a media expert, she skillfully cultivated relationships, both within the university community and beyond, transforming Nnamdi Azikiwe University into a widely recognized and respected brand across the nation and beyond. Her contributions to external relations have been nothing short of remarkable, cementing the university’s position as a beacon of academic excellence.

Mrs. Ene’s work ethic is second to none. Her hardworking, committed, and industrious approach to her duties has been instrumental in propelling the university to greater heights. Despite facing resource constraints, she exhibited a remarkable ability to achieve remarkable results, leaving no stone unturned in her quest to safeguard and enhance the university’s image.

Mrs. Ene’s journey to excellence is rooted in her humble beginnings and determination to succeed. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), she embarked on a career path marked by resilience and tenacity.

Mrs. Ene’s ascent through the ranks of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is a confirmation of her exceptional talent and dedication to duty. From her humble beginnings as an Administrative Assistant/Content Editor, she rose through the ranks, earning accolades and recognition for her outstanding contributions to the university’s public relations efforts.

A member of esteemed professional bodies such as the Computer Professionals of Nigeria (CPN), Association of Nigeria University Professional Administrators (ANUPA), and Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mrs. Ene exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

As she embarks on a new chapter in her career, having been redeployed to the Directorate of UNIZIK Advancement Board, Mrs. Ene’s legacy of excellence and commitment will continue to inspire generations to come. Her dedication to service and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Mrs. Chikaodinaka Gladys Ijeoma Ene, as she continues to make indelible marks in her service to the university and beyond.