The newly appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, has paid glowing tributes to two key figures, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State, for the crucial roles they played in making his emergence as the 16th Vice Chancellor of UNN a reality.
In his emotionally resonant acceptance speech delivered at the Enugu campus of the university shortly after the official announcement of his appointment by the Governing Council, Prof. Ortuanya described the moment as “a dream fulfilled” for the people of Enugu North Senatorial District, also known as Nsukka Zone, marking the first time in the institution’s 65-year history that an indigene of the host community would ascend to the university’s highest office.
“In a special way, I appreciate our President, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the transformation he has brought to bear in education in Nigeria,” Ortuanya said. “We are indeed proud of him, and very proud of his administration.”
He was equally effusive in his gratitude to Governor Peter Mbah, praising his unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and academic advancement.
“Let me appreciate our Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his determination and commitment, for his doggedness and single-mindedness in making sure that today becomes a reality,” he stated.
Prof. Ortuanya’s acknowledgment of President Tinubu and Governor Mbah underscores what many observers describe as a confluence of federal and state support that ultimately tilted the long-standing aspiration of the Nsukka people toward success.
He also extended heartfelt appreciation to a wide array of stakeholders, including the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam; the Chancellor and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Engr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo; members of the selection board; professors; staff; students; and the broader UNN community.
Prof. Ortuanya vowed to lead with purpose and passion, promising a new era of transformation for UNN. “We will redeem our name; we will rebuild the confidence. We will build new dreams and tread the path that has never been walked upon before,” he pledged.
Speaking earlier, Engr. Kayode Ojo, Chairman of the Governing Council, emphasized the rigorous and merit-based process that led to the selection of Prof. Ortuanya, noting that he was the most qualified among 26 shortlisted candidates.
“Prof. Ortuanya was found more than qualified to lead this great university, turn it around, and uplift it from decay in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu,” Ojo remarked.
Prof. Ortuanya now begins a five-year tenure that is expected to usher in a period of renewal and restoration for the institution, whose motto—To Restore the Dignity of Man— he passionately reaffirmed.
A seasoned academic and administrator, Prof. Ortuanya brings with him a wealth of experience, including past service as Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Commissioner for Education, and Pioneer Director-General of the South East Governors’ Forum. His legal and academic credentials include an LL.B from UNN, an LL.M from the University of Lagos, and a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) from Loyola University Chicago.
With this appointment, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, appears poised for a new chapter, one deeply rooted in excellence, inclusivity, and community pride.
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