The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has made history by appointing Professor Kamoru Olayiwola Usman, a Yoruba Muslim from Oyo State, as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics). This marks the first time in the university’s history that a person of Yoruba descent has held the position.
The appointment was made by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oguejiofo T. Ujam, as part of ongoing reforms aimed at fostering inclusive governance and academic excellence at the institution.
Commitment to Merit-Based Leadership
In a statement issued in Abuja, the university reaffirmed its commitment to national unity and meritocracy.
Professor Ujam stated:
“The appointment of Professor Usman reflects our resolve to prioritise competence over sectional considerations. It is imperative that we sustain this culture of inclusivity and meritocracy to move the university forward.”
In addition to Professor Usman’s appointment, the Acting VC also named Dr. Mansur Adebowale Saddiq as Acting Director of the Medical Centre, further demonstrating UNN’s dedication to promoting excellence across all sectors of the university.
Both appointments have been widely welcomed by academics and students, who view them as crucial steps towards strengthening national unity and academic collaboration within the institution.
Profile of Professor Usman
Professor Olayiwola Usman is a renowned scholar in Mathematics Education with a PhD in the field. Prior to his new role, he served as Provost of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo State (2015–2023).
His academic credentials include:
- Fellow, Mathematical Association of Nigeria
- Member, National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies
- Member, Nigerian Educational Research Association
His initial tenure as DVC (Academics) is for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
UNN’s Vision for the Future
During a recent University Senate meeting, Professor Ujam reiterated the institution’s commitment to repositioning UNN as a centre for ethical and innovative learning.
“A collective effort is required to place the institution on a steady path towards ethical and innovative learning. UNN must regain its pride of place as Nigeria’s premier university. We must rid the system of narrow-minded sectionalism and divisive tendencies that have eroded the enabling environment for research, comparative studies, and the adaptive application of new knowledge.”
The meeting was attended by Professor Usman, newly appointed DVC (Academics) and Members of the University Governing Council, led by Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo.
Professor Ujam also stressed that UNN must take the lead in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and praised the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his efforts in advocating experiential learning.
“It is commendable that His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State—our host state—has been championing the transition to experiential learning. We must align with this vision to ensure our students are not left behind in the evolving global education landscape.”
A Call for Unity and Progress
The Acting VC urged the university community to work together to eliminate divisions that hinder research, collaboration, and technological advancement.
“I will be firm, fair, and transparent in the discharge of my duties. UNN must not lag behind in the current technological revolution, characterised by the rivalry between OpenAI and DeepSeek,” he assured.
The appointment of Professor Usman represents a new era of inclusivity, academic excellence, and innovation at UNN, as the institution continues its journey towards global competitiveness.
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