TRENDING... UNN VC, Prof. Ortuanya, Builds Powerful Alliances at TETFund, National Assembly, and Accountant General’s Office to Propel Varsity’s Transformation

Barely hours after his historic inauguration as the 16th substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Simon Ortuanya has proven that his tenure will not be one of ceremonial words, but of strategic action. In a decisive move that underscores his commitment to rebuilding trust, restoring the University’s glory, and inspiring confidence, Prof. Ortuanya has embarked on a series of high-level familiarization visits to key national institutions pivotal to actualizing his ambitious transformative agenda.

His first stop was at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), where he met with Arc. Sonny S.T. Echono, the Executive Secretary. The meeting was more than a courtesy call; it was the opening handshake of what promises to be a robust partnership to upgrade UNN’s academic, research, and infrastructural capabilities. TETFund’s mandate to support tertiary institutions aligns seamlessly with the Vice Chancellor’s vision to digitize UNN’s classrooms, modernize laboratories, and elevate the University’s research capacity to global standards.

From TETFund, Prof. Ortuanya proceeded to the National Assembly, engaging Hon. Abubakar Hassan Fulata, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education. This visit, strategically timed at the dawn of his administration, reflects his deep understanding that policy influence and legislative backing are critical to sustaining reforms in Nigeria’s higher education sector. Discussions centered on legislative advocacy, funding support, and strengthening national policies to enable universities like UNN to thrive in the competitive global academic landscape.

The Vice Chancellor also embarked on a high-level engagement with the Accountant General of the Federation, Mr. Shamsudeen B. Ogunjimi, a distinguished alumnus and steadfast champion of the university’s advancement. This strategic courtesy visit served as a platform for in-depth discussions on measures to enhance the university’s financial capacity, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Central to the deliberations were proposals to increase budgetary allocations, strengthen financial management systems, and ensure the timely release of funds for critical academic and infrastructural initiatives.

The welfare of the university’s retirees also featured prominently, with both leaders exploring practical mechanisms to guarantee the prompt payment of pensions and entitlements, a move aimed at safeguarding the dignity and well-being of those who have served the institution. Prof. Ortuanya expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Ogunjimi’s enduring commitment to UNN’s vision and legacy, describing such alumni partnerships as pivotal in driving transformative progress.

The Vice Chancellor was accompanied by notable figures, including renowned educationist Dr. Chinedu Onu, Member of the Governing Council at Enugu State University of Science and Technology; UNN Liaison Officer, Mr. Obinna Ijere; and dedicated staff member, Mrs. Chinyelu Akabuike.

These rapid-fire engagements are not isolated gestures; they are deliberate moves from a leader who understands that visionary ideas require powerful alliances. Each visit connects directly to Prof. Ortuanya’s blueprint, whether in sourcing infrastructural funding, shaping enabling policies, or ensuring financial discipline. The visit to the Accountant General’s Office, in particular, underscores UNN’s proactive approach to building strategic alliances with key stakeholders capable of shaping its future and solidifying its standing as one of Africa’s premier centres of learning.

His actions in these first hours as Vice Chancellor confirm what many have already begun to sense: the Lion has not just awakened, it is on the move. With every handshake, every discussion, and every door he steps into, Prof. Ortuanya is telling the UNN community and the nation at large that this administration will be intentional, proactive, and unrelenting in pursuit of excellence. The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is entering a new era, one in which strategic partnerships and bold reforms will redefine its place in the global academic arena.