By Jane Daniels
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria (UNN), Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, has challenged alumni of the institution in the United States to move beyond celebrating their individual achievements and invest their resources, expertise and networks in the development of their alma mater.
Prof Ortuanya made the call in Chicago, United States, while addressing participants at the 20th National Convention of the University of Nigeria Alumni and Friends Association USA.
Prof Ortuanya said UNN needed the collective support of its alumni to sustain its development and achieve its ambition of becoming Africa’s best university. He urged US-based alumni to mobilise more graduates into a united and purposeful movement.
“We should ensure that everyone becomes part of this alumni movement. If we can achieve that, by 2030 we will already know the direction we are headed in our alumni movement,” he said.
He challenged alumni to give back to the institution that provided the foundation for their careers, asking: “So the challenge to each and every one of us as alumni is: what can we do for the University of Nigeria?”
The Vice-Chancellor described UNN as a respected institution whose graduates have excelled across various sectors, noting the opportunity to harness the expertise, networks and resources of its large US-based alumni community.
He urged alumni to view their relationship with the university as a long-term commitment and ensure their contributions create sustainable impact. His participation was part of efforts to deepen engagement with UNN alumni worldwide and support the university’s development.
The event featured a keynote address by the Chief Operating Officer of New Jersey Urology and U.S. Urology Partners, Dr Chidebelu Ufordike, as well as fireside chats, scholarship launches for UNN students, business sessions and networking opportunities.
The convention brought together UNN alumni and friends for discussions and activities centred on strengthening the university and its global alumni network.
