Enugu ex-SSG Ortuanya named vice-chancellor of UNN

Simon Ortuanya, professor of law and former secretary to the Enugu state government, has been named as the new vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

The appointment was announced on Sunday after the university’s governing council ratified the decision following a “merit‑based” selection process.

Kayode Ojo, pro‑chancellor and chairman of the council, said the process began under the previous council and involved 26 candidates.

Ojo said the council conducted a thorough review of documents and held interviews with candidates before settling on Ortuanya.

“These two processes were rigorously and fairly done,” he said.

“Everybody’s documents were scrutinised and with the interview, we brought proper questions that mattered to the development of this university.”

He said the goal was to appoint someone who could restore the university’s image and attract patronage from government, alumni and friends of UNN.

In his acceptance speech, Ortuanya promised to serve the university wholeheartedly and restore its “glorious days” through collaboration with stakeholders.

“We will redeem our name, rebuild the confidence, build new dreams and follow up with things that have taken us back,” he said.

He also extended a hand of fellowship to the other candidates, describing them as “brothers and sisters” in the effort to rebuild their alma mater.

In a congratulatory message signed by Inya Agha Egwu, acting public relations officer, the university said Ortuanya brings “a wealth of academic and administrative experience” to the position.

The institution expressed confidence that his knowledge of governance, law and leadership would advance the mission of Nigeria’s first indigenous university.

The new vice-chancellor previously served as associate dean of law at UNN, professor at Enugu State University of Science and Technology, and visiting scholar at Loyola University, Chicago.

Ortuanya was also commissioner for education under Sullivan Chime, former Enugu governor.

He also served as director‑general of the south‑east governors’ forum.