The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has appointed Professor Simon Ortuanya as its 16th Vice Chancellor, marking a historic moment as the first person from the host Enugu North Senatorial District to hold the position.
Professor Ortuanya, a Professor of Law, currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Law at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). He is widely credited with improving academic standards and enhancing the global competitiveness of ESUT’s law graduates.
The announcement was made during a meeting of UNN’s Governing Council at the Enugu campus. In his acceptance speech, Ortuanya expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to reform Nigeria’s education sector, describing his administration as a source of pride.
He also thanked Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his determination and commitment in supporting the Nsukka people’s long standing aspiration to have one of their own lead the institution.
“I will serve this university with all my heart and strength,” Ortuanya pledged. “We will restore the university’s glory, rebuild confidence, and chart new paths never explored before.”
He called on both academic and non-academic staff to work with him over the next five years to uphold the university’s founding vision of “restoring the dignity of man.”
Pro Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman Engr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo explained that the selection process began under the previous council, with 26 candidates shortlisted. The council sought a leader with strong academic credentials and a broad network to attract opportunities for the university.
“Professor Ortuanya was found more than qualified to turn the university around and align it with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for first generation universities,” Ojo said.
Ortuanya takes over from Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Oguejiofor Ujam and will lead UNN for the next five years.
