Residents of Nsukka have hailed the appointment of Prof. Simon Ortuanya as the 16th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), marking the first time an indigene of the town will lead the institution since its establishment in 1960.
The announcement, made by the UNN Governing Council led by Pro-Chancellor Dr. Kayode Ojo, has been met with widespread celebration, with many describing it as a historic and long-overdue milestone.
Prof. Ortuanya, who emerged winner among 28 contenders, is set to take over from Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam when his tenure ends on August 10.
“This is a day Nsukka will never forget,” said High Chief William Agbo, CEO of Wilson Group. “For 65 years, we’ve waited for this moment. It’s not just an appointment; it’s the breaking of a jinx.”
Agbo also credited Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for playing a significant role in facilitating the appointment, stating that Nsukka residents are deeply grateful for his support.
Prof. Paulinus Ugwuoke, President of the Association of Nsukka Professors, described the development as the fulfilment of a decades-long dream. “I’m filled with joy that this landmark happened during my leadership,” he said, urging the new VC to be inclusive and address lingering issues in the institution.
Also reacting, Dr. Oyibo Eze, Chairman of ASUU-UNN, welcomed the appointment, calling it “an act of God” and pledging the union’s support for Prof. Ortuanya’s administration.
The development has sparked a wave of optimism across Nsukka, with many viewing it as a new chapter in the university’s history and a step toward stronger community representation in leadership.
