The Nigeria Union Of Journalists, Federated Correspondents’ Chapel Nsukka, Enugu State congratulates Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya for emerging the 16th Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the chairman NUJ Federated Correspondent s’ Chapel Nsukka, Comrade Ike Okenyi and the secretary, Comrade Brendan Eze.

“Undoubtedly, the appointment of Prof. Ortuanya has ended years of agitations from the host communities, that have been clamouring for an indigenous Vice Chancellor of the premier university in the past years.

It is not in dispute that since the inception of the university in 1960, no indigenous person has been appointed the Vice Chancellor of the university, resulting to the agitation over the perceived marginalization of the host communities on the leadership cadre in the institution.

Prof. Ortuanya’s appointment is therefore a victory for the entire people of Enugu North Senatorial District, bearing in mind the travails earlier passed in attempts to occupy the exalted seat.

The union is however aware of the strategic roles played by the Enugu State Governor, Barr. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for the actualization of this aged long dream and accordingly commends him for his commitment and resilient during the processes of the appointment.

As Prof. Ortuanya awaits his official inauguration as the new Vice Chancellor of this prestigious university, the union hopes that he will map out strategies that will revamp the ivory tower, for the Lion to roar again and for the dignity of man to be totally restored.

Though, the task of rebuilding the ivory tower may be challenging, the union urges him to serve with the fear of God, perseverance, steadfast; bringing his wealth of experiences to bear.