Rotary Honours UNN Vice-Chancellor with Paul Harris Fellowship, Names Him Polio Ambassador

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, has been decorated as a Paul Harris Fellow and named a Polio Ambassador by Rotary International Club District 9142, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to service.

The honours were conferred during a courtesy visit by the District Governor, Chibuzor Asogwa, and his delegation to the Vice-Chancellor on Friday, October 9, 2026.

Asogwa said the Paul Harris Fellow recognition was made possible through contributions of a minimum of $1000 from the Vice-Chancellor's friends in celebration of his leadership and service.

He commended Professor Ortuanya for the visible changes taking place at the University, noting that the Vice-Chancellor's rebuilding agenda was already making an impact despite having spent just one year in office.

The District Governor also announced that Rotary District 9142 would host Nigeria's 2026 World Polio Day celebration on October 24, with the major event scheduled to take place in Owerri, Imo State.

He informed the Vice-Chancellor that Rotary would wish to partner with UNN to establish Nigeria's first Rotary Peace Centre at the University.

He explained that Rotary International partners with leading universities worldwide to establish Rotary Peace Centres, which offer fully-funded scholarships and professional development opportunities to graduate students for studies in peace and conflict resolution.

Responding, Professor Ortuanya thanked Rotary for the honours and expressed gratitude to his friends who made donations that made the award possible.

He stated that UNN's philosophy of to seek, to teach truth and to preserve truth converges with the ideals of Rotary International, describing Rotary as an organisation that demonstrates its commitment to service through practical philanthropy.

He assured the delegation of his commitment to identifying with Rotary, encouraging young people to embrace the Club's ideals of service and philanthropy.

He reaffirmed his administration's determination to continue efforts at rebuilding the University and placing it among leading global universities.