For the first time since its establishment in 1960, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has appointed a Vice Chancellor from its host community, marking a historic moment with the emergence of Professor Simon Ortuanya as the 16th Vice Chancellor of the institution.

Prof. Ortuanya, who hails from Nsukka Zone (Enugu North Senatorial District), becomes the first indigenous academic from the region to ascend to the university’s highest leadership position in over six decades. His appointment was announced during a meeting of the Governing Council held at the university’s Enugu campus (UNEC) on Sunday.

In his acceptance speech, the new Vice Chancellor expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and the UNN community for their roles in what he described as the fulfilment of a long-standing aspiration for the Nsukka people.

“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 on education in Nigeria,” Ortuanya said.

“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 also extended appreciation to other key figures including the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam; the Chancellor and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II; the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo; as well as members of the Selection Board, academic staff, and the entire university community.

Calling for unity and collaboration, Prof. Ortuanya appealed to all stakeholders—academic and non-academic—to join him on the five-year journey of rebuilding and advancing the university’s mission to “restore the dignity of man.”

“I am extending my hands of friendship and fellowship and brotherhood to each and every one; after all, we are one family,” he added.

Earlier, while announcing the appointment, Mr. Ojo explained that the selection process began under the previous Governing Council with 26 candidates shortlisted, and was conducted with transparency, fairness, and a strong focus on leadership capacity and vision.

“The Council wanted a professor who is sound in education, with an extensive network outside the university that can attract a lot of patronage. 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 Bola Tinubu, especially for first-generation universities,” Ojo stated.

Prof. Simon Ortuanya’s appointment is seen as both symbolic and strategic, as expectations mount for him to spearhead a new era of academic excellence, institutional reform, and renewed pride for the university and its host community.