Residents of Nsukka in Enugu State have welcomed with jubilation the appointment of Professor Simon Ortuanya as the 16th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), describing the development as a historic milestone that breaks a 65-year-old jinx.
The announcement was made by the UNN Governing Council on Sunday, led by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Dr Kayode Ojo. Professor Ortuanya emerged victorious from a pool of 28 candidates, succeeding Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Oguejiofo Ujam, whose tenure ends on 10 August 2025.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), several community leaders and academics expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government, describing the appointment as a long-overdue recognition of the host community’s contribution to the university’s legacy.
“Since 1960 when the university was founded, this is the first time a son of the soil has been appointed Vice-Chancellor. August 3, 2025, will forever be remembered in Nsukka history,” said High Chief William Agbo, CEO of Wilson Group of Companies.
Agbo also thanked Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as a decisive role in facilitating the appointment, even suggesting that the governor had earned political capital that would carry him into a second term without needing to campaign in the Nsukka zone.
“With this, Mbah has earned our unwavering support. He need not come to campaign in the six local government areas that make up Nsukka zone for the 2027 elections,” Agbo stated.
Echoing the sentiment, Professor Paulinus Ugwuoke, President of the Association of Nsukka Professors, said the appointment was a long-cherished aspiration finally realised.
“I’m overwhelmed with joy. This historic moment occurred during my tenure as president of the association. I thank every Nsukka son and daughter who contributed to this achievement,” he said.
He urged the incoming Vice-Chancellor to promote inclusiveness and address any existing irregularities within the university system.
Also reacting, Dr Oyibo Eze, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNN Chapter, described the appointment as divinely ordained.
“Leadership comes from God. What He has not ordained will not come to pass. ASUU-UNN will offer Professor Ortuanya all the support required to fulfil his vision for the institution,” Eze affirmed.
The appointment of Professor Ortuanya marks not only a personal achievement but also a symbolic victory for the Nsukka community, who see it as long-overdue recognition in the leadership of a university situated in their homeland.
