The Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umeobi, has expressed her deep appreciation for the role sports has played in shaping her life and career. During a visit from the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra chapter, on Tuesday, the VC recalled her experiences as a national athlete, highlighting how a single media publication transformed her journey from a student athlete to a globally recognized figure.
Prof. Arinze-Umeobi, a former national discus champion, broke the national record at the National Sports Festival in discus event in women category at Kaduna in 1977 with a throw of 41.18 meters.
Reflecting on that achievement, she attributed much of her success to sports journalism, particularly crediting a publication by sports journalist Aniette Ekong for bringing her talent to the limelight
In recognition of the impact sports has had on her life, the Vice Chancellor announced her intention to endow a special prize for the best-performing discus thrower at the Nigeria University Games (NUGA). She emphasized that sports and academics go hand in hand, and that universities should not overlook the development of athletes alongside academics.
