Dr. Okey Ugwuada Ezirigwe, Chief Executive Officer of Communication Africa Initiative (CAI), has congratulated Professor Simon Ortuanya on his historic appointment as the first indigenous Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
In a statement made available to JOURNALIST101 on Monday, Dr. Ezirigwe described the appointment as a “momentous watershed” for the people of Nsukka, noting that it marks the end of over six decades of waiting for an indigene of the host community to assume the university’s top leadership position.
“Dear Prof. Simon Ortuanya, I rejoice with you and with all of our people on your very well deserved and popularly anticipated emergence as the first indigenous Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria,” Dr. Ezirigwe stated.
He emphasized the significance of the appointment, pointing out that despite Nsukka being the host town of the prestigious university, it had taken more than 60 years for a native to be appointed Vice Chancellor.
“Inspired by your vast exposure to the complex vagaries of the ivory towers and your brilliant administrative leadership experience and record of achievements, I trust in your capacity to not only restore the University of Nigeria to its past glory but to also uphold the moral principles as expressed in the maxim of the great citadel, ‘to restore the dignity of man!’” the message read.
Dr. Ezirigwe who’s also the Principal Partner at Gas Alert for Sustainable Development (GASIN), attributed the development to divine providence and expressed hope for Prof. Ortuanya’s successful tenure.
“We give all the glory to God who made this moment possible and pray He grant you the grace to succeed,” he added.
He concluded his message on a warm personal note, saying, “Congratulations, my big brother!”
The appointment of Prof. Ortuanya has sparked wide celebration across Nsukka and the academic community, symbolizing a major milestone in the university’s history and a moment of pride for the people of the region.
