In a groundbreaking appointment, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has named Professor Kamoru Olayiwola Usman, a Yoruba Muslim from Oyo State, as its new 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, made by Acting Vice-Chancellor (Ag. VC) Professor Oguejiofo T. Ujam, is part of ongoing reforms aimed at fostering inclusive governance and restoring UNN’s legacy as a hub for academic excellence.
In a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja, the university underscored its commitment to promoting merit-based leadership and national unity. Professor Ujam emphasized that the choice of Professor Usman was driven by competence and the need to move beyond sectional considerations.
“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,” Professor Ujam said.
Professor Usman, who succeeds Professor Urama, holds a PhD in Mathematics Education and previously served as Provost of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo State, from 2015 to 2023. A distinguished scholar, he is a fellow of the Mathematical Association of Nigeria and a member of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, among other professional bodies. His tenure as DVC (Academics) will initially run for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
In addition to Professor Usman’s appointment, the Acting VC also named Dr Mansur Adebowale Saddiq as Acting Director of the Medical Centre, signaling further efforts to promote excellence over sectional interests.
The appointments have been widely praised by scholars and students, who view them as positive steps toward strengthening national unity within the institution.
During a recent University Senate meeting, Professor Ujam called on faculty and staff to collectively reposition 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,” he said.
The meeting was attended by key university officials, including Professor Usman and members of the governing council, led by Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo.
Looking ahead, the Acting VC urged the university to lead in emerging global trends, particularly in technology and artificial intelligence, and commended Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for championing experiential learning.
“It is commendable that His Excellency, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State—our host state—has been advocating for 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,” Professor Ujam added.
He further pledged to be “firm, fair, and transparent” in his leadership, stressing that UNN must not fall behind in the technological revolution currently reshaping education worldwide.
