Prof Simon Ortuanya Makes History as First Indigenous UNN Vice Chancellor

Prof Simon Uchenna Ortuanya has emerged as the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), making history as the first indigenous Vice Chancellor in the institution's over 60-year existence.

The appointment was first announced by renowned lawyer Chidi Onah, who has been closely following the selection process. Onah confirmed the news through a post on his Facebook page on Sunday night stating, "Finally, Professor Simon Uchenna Otuanya is the next Vice Chancellor of University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Now, you can start congratulating him."

A member of the UNN Governing Council, speaking on condition of anonymity, also confirmed Ortuanya's appointment to BenriNews. "Yes, we just finished the business of getting a new VC for UNN. He (Ortuanya) came top among other candidates," the council member revealed.

This appointment marks a significant milestone in the university's history, as Prof Ortuanya becomes the first person of indigenous origin to lead Nigeria's first indigenous university since its establishment over six decades ago.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, established in 1955 and formally opened in 1960, has previously been led by non-indigenous Vice Chancellors throughout its history. Ortuanya's appointment therefore represents a historic shift in the institution's leadership structure.

Prof Ortuanya's academic and administrative credentials, though not detailed in the initial announcement, evidently impressed the selection committee enough to secure him the top position among all candidates considered for the prestigious role.

The appointment comes at a time when Nigerian universities are facing various challenges including funding issues, academic standards, and infrastructure development. Stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the new Vice Chancellor addresses these challenges while building on UNN's legacy as one of Nigeria's premier institutions of higher learning.

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