Our History

The Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, was established under the East Central State of Nigeria Edict No. 10 of 1973, promulgated by Ajie Ukpabi Asika, the Administrator of the East Central State. Before its establishment, three autonomous institutions existed: the College of Technology, the Institute of Administration, and the Co-operative College. These institutions operated independently, offering specialized programs.

The College of Technology provided courses in Engineering and Laboratory Technology, leading to Ordinary Diplomas, and was managed by the Ministry of Education. The Institute of Administration focused on short in-service training under the Ministry of Establishments. Meanwhile, the Co-operative College offered certificate courses in Co-operative Studies for inspectors from the Ministry of Rural Development. These institutions were staffed by civil servants who were often reassigned based on the Civil Service’s needs.

In 1970, the necessity for a higher institution to train professionals in technological, managerial, and engineering fields became evident. By October 1971, the Ukpabi Asika administration resolved to merge the College of Technology and the Institute of Administration. This merger placed both institutions under the unified control of the Cabinet Office on April 1, 1972.

In October 1972, a Provisional Council was appointed to determine the appropriate structure for a higher institution tailored to the state’s and nation’s technical, professional, and managerial manpower needs. After diligent efforts, the Council submitted its recommendations in April 1973. Subsequently, on May 31, 1973, the Edict No. 10 of 1973, titled “The Institute of Management and Technology Edict 1973,” was enacted. The edict took effect on July 1, 1973, officially inaugurating the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu.

Dr. Ukwu I. Ukwu served as the first Chairman of the Council, while Professor M.O. Chijioke and Mr. B.O. Akwukwuma became the first Rector and Registrar, respectively.

Notable Chairpersons of IMT Governing Council

1. Dr. Uzor
   • A medical doctor and experienced political strategist, Dr. Uzor concluded a five-year tenure as Federal Commissioner in the National Population Commission before chairing IMT’s Governing Council from June 2016 to June 2017. He played significant roles in the election campaigns of Sullivan Chime and Governor Ugwuanyi.
2. Chief (Rev.) Dr. Hyde Udeze Onuaguluchi
   • Known for his diverse engagements in politics, religion, and law, Dr. Onuaguluchi is also the founder of Hydrotech, an engineering firm providing free drinking water across the eastern region of Nigeria. He chaired the Governing Council from 2004 to 2009 and earned a reputation for his dedication to public service and welfare.
3. Prof. Ukwu I. Ukwu (OFR)
   • An accomplished economist and former Education Commissioner of the defunct East Central State, Prof. Ukwu held numerous leadership roles in academic and professional societies. He consulted for global organizations, including The World Bank, UNDP, and UNICEF, and taught at various universities, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Prof. Ukwu chaired IMT’s Governing Council from 1974 to 1975.
4. Charles Aniweta Abangwu (CON)
   • A lawyer, traditional ruler, and politician, Abangwu was a member of the Eastern House of Assembly in 1954 and served as its Deputy Speaker from 1957 to 1962. He later became a commissioner in the East Central State under Ukpabi Asika in 1970 and chaired IMT’s Governing Council from 1980 to 1983.
5. Professor Michael U. Iloeje
   • A distinguished academic, Prof. Iloeje holds degrees from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Cornell University, and Oxford University. He has received numerous national and international awards for his contributions to science, technology, and community service. Prof. Iloeje has served in various leadership roles at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, and remains a respected figure in animal genetics and breeding.

IMT Enugu continues to build on its rich history, contributing significantly to the development of skilled professionals in Nigeria and beyond.