Rep. Jesse Onuakalusi to Lead N5 Billion Fundraising for UNN Founder Tower

Rep. Jesse Onuakalusi (LP-Lagos) has been appointed to chair the fundraising committee of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Alumni Association, with the ambitious goal of raising N5 billion to construct a Founder's Tower.

In his acceptance speech delivered in Abuja, Onuakalusi emphasized the significance of the Founder's Day, marking the 64th anniversary of the university. He stated, “The primary objective of this initiative is to build the Founders Tower, which will serve as a tribute to our founding fathers.”

The proposed Founders Tower will include a Grand Research Institute, a 5,000-seat amphitheater, an Alumni Secretariat, and a Conference Arena. Additionally, it will feature a Hall of Fame to honor UNN’s distinguished alumni who have excelled in various fields. Onuakalusi expressed optimism that the committee would successfully raise the required funds and complete the project within 48 months.

Highlighting the historical significance of UNN, Onuakalusi noted that it was the first indigenous university in Nigeria, modeled after the University of Michigan, USA. He reiterated the university’s vision as a launchpad for educational excellence aimed at restoring the dignity of man, particularly for the black race. He cited the university’s motto, “To Restore the Dignity of Man,” which draws inspiration from the teachings of the 15th-century philosopher Count Giovanni Pico della Mirandola.