Education
Oganiru Igbo-Etiti (OIE) hails Prof. Ortuanya’s historic UNN appointment
DDM News

Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya’s appointment as the 16th Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has sparked a wave of celebration in Enugu State, especially among his kinsmen from the Nsukka cultural zone.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that his emergence as Vice Chancellor marks a watershed moment, being the first time a son of Nsukka has ascended to lead the university since its establishment in 1960.
The prominent socio-cultural youth organization, Oganiru Igbo-Etiti (OIE), has described the appointment as a victory for excellence, equity, and generational hope.
In a statement jointly signed by Hon. IG Amaechi Okoro, General Secretary, and Hon. Ogbobe Chidera Stanley, President of OIE, the group commended Prof. Ortuanya’s journey as a shining example of what focused leadership and educational pursuit can achieve.
The group said the new VC’s appointment is not just a personal victory, but a generational breakthrough for the people of Nsukka and the youth across Nigeria.
According to OIE, Prof. Ortuanya’s elevation is a “beacon of hope,” especially for rural youth who have long believed that greatness in academia and national leadership was reserved for others.
They emphasized that his story proves that the most overlooked sons of the soil can rise to lead one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions.
Prof. Ortuanya, a renowned academic and legal expert, holds the prestigious Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) degree and is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb) and the Chartered Institute of Administration (FCIA).
His professional journey spans impactful contributions in the public and private sectors, particularly as Secretary to the Enugu State Government under Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
OIE stated that they have full confidence that UNN will blossom under Ortuanya’s leadership, drawing from his years of experience, proven administrative capacity, and deep knowledge of policy formulation.
The youth group called the development a “defining milestone” in the life of Nsukka people and an inspiring moment that will resonate for decades.
They offered their sincere appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving the appointment, as well as to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Moruf Alausa.
OIE also acknowledged the roles played by the Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mba, the UNN Governing Council, and the bloc of Nsukka professors and other stakeholders in making the transition successful.
They described Prof. Ortuanya as a mentor, role model, and the pride of Nsukka who has proven that excellence can grow from humble beginnings.
With high expectations across the university system, his appointment is seen as timely, especially as Nigerian universities face the challenge of global competitiveness, innovation, and infrastructural development.
Prof. Ortuanya is expected to assume office in the coming days, where he will lead UNN into a new chapter of academic renaissance.
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