Monarchs commend UNN VC for historic meeting with host communities

From Felix Ikem, Nsukka

Traditional rulers in Nsukka have commended the 16th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Prof. Simon Ortuanya, for convening what they described as a landmark meeting aimed at strengthening relations between the University and its host communities.

The royal fathers gave the commendation yesterday at a meeting between the University and traditional rulers, President-Generals and Chief Security Officers of autonomous communities in Nsukka town.

The engagement was convened by the institution’s Director of Community Relations, Prof Chukwuemeka Obetta, at the instance of the Vice-Chancellor.

Speaking at the forum, the monarchs praised Prof Ortuanya’s foresight and inclusive leadership style, noting that since the establishment of the university, the host communities had not been accorded such structured and high-level recognition.

They described the initiative as a clear departure from the past and a demonstration of mutual respect and institutional maturity.

According to them, the engagement reflects a genuine commitment to building a harmonious relationship with the host communities which is anchored on dialogue and collaboration.

The traditional rulers pledged their unalloyed support to Prof. Ortuanya’s administration and expressed readiness to collaborate in safeguarding lives and property within and around the university environment.

In his remarks, Prof. Obetta said that the meeting was designed to institutionalise communication between the university and its host communities, stressing that it was the first step in a series of engagements the university administration has slated for community stakeholders in and around the university.

He described the traditional rulers as “critical stakeholders and true custodians of the land,” noting that the university’s identity is inseparably linked to Nsukka.

“The university bears the name of this town; its growth, reputation and stability must therefore be a shared responsibility,” he said.

Prof Obetta emphasised that the Directorate of Community Relations was established by the Vice-Chancellor to ensure proactive engagement, early conflict resolution and proper coordination of the university’s corporate social responsibilities and developmental initiatives within the host communities.

He assured participants that their recommendations particularly on strengthening security collaboration and expanding local participation in the University’s security framework, would be considered by the university management.

Among the traditional rulers present were HRH Igwe Linus Obayi of Nguru Nsukka; Igwe George Asadu of Ihe Nsukka; a representative of Igwe Christopher Aniebonam Ezugwu of Echara Nsukka; Igwe Linus Okonkwo Atugwu of Ezema and Edem Nru Nsukka; and Igwe (Dr.) Felix Emeka Ugwu of Owerre Nsukka.