Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has congratulated Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya on his appointment as Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his media adviser, Enyinnaya Appolos, Dr. Ikpeazu described the appointment as “timely and well-deserved,” citing Ortuanya’s outstanding record in academia, public service, and leadership.
He commended the new VC’s contributions during his time as Director-General of the South-East Governors’ Forum, where he played a key role in fostering regional cooperation, and later as Secretary to the Enugu State Government under former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
“Professor Ortuanya is a committed intellectual, a bridge-builder, and a tested public servant. His elevation is not just a personal milestone, but a significant gain for the Southeast and Nigeria’s academic community,” Ikpeazu said.
He expressed confidence in Ortuanya’s ability to drive innovation and uphold the legacy of UNN, describing the university as a national pride and a beacon of academic excellence.
“As you take up this noble task, may your tenure be marked by innovation, excellence, and the continued upliftment of UNN’s proud legacy,” the former governor added.
Ortuanya’s appointment as the head of Nigeria’s first indigenous university has been widely applauded across academic and political circles.
