Nsukka, Enugu State – August 4, 2025
The Governing Council of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has appointed Professor Simon Ortuanya, a distinguished legal scholar and former Secretary to the Enugu State Government, as the institution’s 16th Vice Chancellor.
The announcement was made on Sunday following a rigorous and transparent selection process led by the Council Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Mr. Kayode Ojo.
Prof. Ortuanya emerged winner among 26 candidates vying for the position. According to Ojo, the process involved in-depth screening of CVs and extensive interviews, aimed at identifying a visionary academic leader capable of revitalizing the university.
> “Our focus was to appoint a manager and a professor who combines academic excellence with external networks that can attract support to UNN,” said Ojo.
Accepting the appointment, Prof. Ortuanya expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah for their unwavering support. He also commended the Governing Council for their thoroughness and dedication throughout the process.
> “We will redeem our name, rebuild confidence, and restore UNN’s glory. I invite all colleagues to join hands in rebuilding our alma mater,” Ortuanya stated in his address.
The University’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Inya Agha Egwu, issued a congratulatory statement on behalf of the institution, describing the new Vice Chancellor as an accomplished academic with a deep understanding of university administration.
> “Prof. Ortuanya brings a wealth of experience that will guide the university toward academic excellence and transformation,” the statement read.
Born in Aku, Igboetiti Local Government Area, Prof. Ortuanya becomes the first Vice Chancellor from Nsukka, the university’s host community, since its founding 65 years ago.
He previously held academic and administrative positions at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), and served as a visiting scholar at Loyola University, Chicago.
His public service record includes tenure as Commissioner for Education under former Governor Sullivan Chime, Secretary to the State Government under Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Director General of the South East Governors’ Forum.
