The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has appointed Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya as its 16th Vice-Chancellor, marking a pivotal leadership transition for Nigeria’s premier academic institution.
Prof. Ortuanya, a distinguished legal scholar and former Secretary to the Enugu State Government (SSG), was officially ratified for the role by the University’s Governing Council on Sunday. The confirmation followed what the institution described as a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based selection process chaired by Council Chairman, Kayode Ojo.
Speaking on the appointment, the University’s spokesperson, Inya Agha Egwu, highlighted Ortuanya’s impressive blend of academic, administrative, and public service experience as key factors behind his emergence.
“Professor Ortuanya is a seasoned academic whose leadership credentials span decades in legal education, university governance, and state administration. His appointment signals UNN’s commitment to fostering a new chapter of academic innovation and visionary leadership,” Egwu stated.
Ortuanya’s academic journey is anchored in the University of Nigeria, where he once served as Associate Dean of the Faculty of Law, Enugu Campus. He is currently a Professor of Law at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) and a visiting scholar at Loyola University Chicago School of Law in the United States.
Beyond academia, Professor Ortuanya has held prominent positions in public administration, including serving as the Secretary to the Enugu State Government and Commissioner for Education. His in-depth understanding of educational policy, governance frameworks, and legal systems is expected to play a vital role in driving strategic reforms at UNN.
With his five-year tenure ahead, the university community is optimistic that Professor Ortuanya’s leadership will catalyze transformative changes, elevating UNN’s academic standing and institutional impact both locally and internationally.
The University has extended its congratulations to Professor Ortuanya, expressing confidence that his vision and expertise will steer the institution towards greater excellence.