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Tag: UNICAL

  • UNICAL Inducts 321 Into Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology

    UNICAL Inducts 321 Into Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology NISLT, has today, April 28, 2025 inducted 321 graduates into the institute.

    The maiden induction ceremony which held at the University of Calabar International Conference Center, was declared opened by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Florence Obi.

    Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Tony Eyang, Prof Obi, welcomed inductees to the madein induction ceremony and noted that “We are here to celebrate success. To celebrate milestone in the University. This administration has done enough to ensure that this department gets both technical manpower and the techniques as well as the expertise that the students needs to be prepared for global competitiveness.

    “Just as UNICAL celebrate 50 years anniversary, we are also here to celebrate our first fruits.”

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    She used the opportunity to thank the lecturers who prepared the students for this day.

    Referring to the inductees, the Vice Chancellor noted that “The path you are to take is to make you reflect on the fact that you have a role to play to make the society a better place through creativity and innovation.”

    Obi used the opportunity and welcomed the team from the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology and thanked Prof Joseph Asor, for the role he has played in Biological Sciences.

    Administering the oath of allegiance on the inductees, the Director General, Registrar/CEO of the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, Mr Yemi Hezekiah Gbadegesin, expressed displeasure with the former HOD, when he said “Although the Institute was initially not happy with the procedures the former HOD/Students adopted on the issue of professional licensure without considering that the professional registration by NSLT is based on both academic and character as enshrined in the NSLT Act 12 of 2003 of the National Assembly. We are also not unaware of the crisis and pains the students passed through in the year 2024 which was exacerbated by the past HOD.

    “The technological leadership demonstrated by the current HOD is noteworthy in ensuring professionalism in the SLT Department, in fact without him today’s program wouldn’t have been possible. You are indeed a true professional and a father who always want the best for his children.”

    He used the occasion to remind the inductees that SLT was designed to: produce highly skilled and professionally competent laboratory scientists with practical and theoretical diverse knowledge through critical thinking and logical reasoning, produce laboratory scientists with the capacity to coordinate science-based experiments and research in the laboratories and workshops among others.

    Speaking further, he noted that “This programme is in line with the mandate of the Institute and in fulfillment of the curriculum of the SLT University program “Graduates of the Programme are inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) upon completion of Mandatory Professional Examination and become licensed in the field of Science Laboratory Technology.”

    He established that “Pass in MPE is a precursor to NISLT professional registration and Induction which the university has fulfilled. Regrettably, only 10 of the Inductees did online registration making it impossible for the Institute to release their license that will be required at the NYSC Orientation Programme. At this juncture all the Inductees should as a matter of urgency complete their online registration by uploading their passport photographs and credentials (WAEC/NECO and University of Calabar certificate) without which no  professional license would be issued.

    He charged the inductees to be of good conduct “As our new ambassadors and certified professionals, I want to advise that you should actively and consciously listen, affirm to the oath, and commit to heart the Code of Ethics of the profession. You should assert yourselves and project the image of the profession in all areas of your endeavors. If you are to engage in private practice, please register your facility with the both the CAC and NISLT to avoid intimidation,” he added.

    He charged inductees to abide by the code of conduct which includes; honesty and Integrity, transparent, accountable, competency limitations, objectivist at all times, respect the dignity of man, set good example, having the courage to take a stand as well as dress well”.

    On his part, the Dean of the Faculty of Biological Sciences, Prof Chris Ndome, congratulates the inductees and charge them to go forth and make meaningful contribution in the society.

    He averred that “You are the first set to be inducted and you owe yourselves the responsibility of professionalism. Network with your pears and industries experts. Go forth and make meaningful contribution to the society.
    We look forward to the impacts you will make in your chosen career.”

    On his part, the Head, Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Dr Ivon Ettah, said “Today marks the a significant milestone in the journey of our department and more importantly, in the professional lives of our graduating students. This ceremony is not just a formality, but a rite of passage: a moment that officially ushers our inductees into the noble and essential field of Science Laboratory Technology.

    “As the Head of Department, I feel a deep sense of pride and fulfillment. Our journey to this point has been one of growth, learning, and transformation. Together, we have built a strong foundation that prioritizes academic excellence, professional ethics, and practical competence.

    “To our dear inductees; today, you are not just being celebrated for completing your academic journey, you are being welcomed into a community of professionals who play a vital role in the advancement of science and healthcare. Your role as science laboratory technologists is critical in research, diagnosis, innovations, and in safeguarding public health. You must carry this responsibility with integrity, diligence, and continuous curiosity.”

    “Mr Ettah used the opportunity to commend the unflinching support of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Florence Obi, as well as the the Dean of the faculty of Biological Sciences.”

  • Controversy Trails UNICAL VC Selection as Misleading ‘10-Year Rule’ Headline Sparks Outcry

    Controversy Trails UNICAL VC Selection as Misleading ‘10-Year Rule’ Headline Sparks Outcry

    By Clement Bisong

    A fresh wave of controversy has hit the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as stakeholders raise alarm over attempts by the university’s governing council to introduce a mandatory 10-year post-professorial experience criterion for candidates vying to become Vice Chancellor — an action many see as unprecedented, unfair, and legally questionable.

    The controversy erupted after a media report with the bold headline “FG: 10 years’ experience as professor key criteria for VC selection” made rounds, implying a binding federal directive.

    However, a closer look at the body of the same article reveals that the so-called “requirement” is merely a guideline—not a law—and one not enforceable on the governing councils of autonomous federal universities.

    Multiple sources within the Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja have since confirmed that no directive was issued mandating 10 years’ professorial experience as a minimum qualification.

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    “The 10-year recommendation was a guideline for consideration,” one senior official said under anonymity.

    “It is not a directive, Governing Councils are free to set 5, 7, 8, or 9 years based on their institutional context and tradition. The Ministry only guides—it does not impose.”

    This clarification has only deepened concerns that the attempt to enforce the 10-year rule in UNICAL may be a political ploy to exclude certain strong candidates.

    In particular, critics point to the fact that the last three Vice-Chancellors of the institution were appointed with 5, 7, and 9 years of post-professorial experience, respectively—without any controversy or disapproval from the Ministry of Education or the Presidency.

    Education law experts emphasize that the University Miscellaneous Provisions Act (as amended) entrusts the governing council with exclusive powers to set criteria and recommend suitable candidates for the VC position.

    While the Ministry may issue advisory policies, it does not have the power to dictate terms or overrule the council’s decisions within the law.

    The new policy recently announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, which bars acting Vice-Chancellors from contesting for the substantive post unless they step down, has also been widely misrepresented.

    Though necessary to ensure fairness, this policy has been wrongly conflated with unrelated eligibility conditions like the 10-year rule.

    “The real issue is not policy—it is manipulation,” said a prominent UNICAL stakeholder. “This process should be guided by equity, merit, and transparency, not backdoor politics or propaganda. This is not politics with zoning and tribal agendas. It is all about competence.”

    UNICAL, a proud second-generation university celebrating 50 years of academic service, now finds itself at a crossroads.

    The university community, alumni, and concerned observers across the country are calling on the governing council to adhere to both the law and the spirit of fairness, resisting attempts to bend the rules midstream.

    In a time when Nigerian universities need strong, visionary leadership more than ever, insiders warn that excluding qualified candidates through artificial barriers could damage both the credibility of the process and the future of the institution.

  • Ovation As Commendations Continues To Trail Betta Edu’s Induction Into Unical Hall of Fame, Conferment Of Grand Ambassador Award

    Ovation As Commendations Continues To Trail Betta Edu’s Induction Into Unical Hall of Fame, Conferment Of Grand Ambassador Award

    By Rasheed Olanrewaju

    More than one and half decade after leaving the University of Calabar, medical school as a graduate of medicine, Dr. Betta Edu returned to the prestigious institution last month, in a blaze of glory and amid effusive praises, to receive a distinguished award in recognition of her sterling service to her fatherland and humanity as well as for consistently projecting Unical in good light through her impeccable public service record.

    The immediate past APC National Women Leader, and Honorable Minister; was inducted into the University’s Hall of Fame. She was also awarded with the Grand Ambassador of Unical.

    The fitting and deserving honours were bestowed on Dr Edu during Unical’s 50th anniversary of its establishment as well as special convocation.

    Dr Edu was honoured along side the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honourable Benjamin Kalu CON, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu among other top Nigerians from various fields of endeavors.

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    The process of recognizing Dr Edu began early March with an official letter from the University’s management intimating her of the decision to honour her. The read reads in part:”In nominating you for this prestigious award, the University has considered your success in using the knowledge/skills acquired in the University in your chosen field/professional career.

    “The University also notes the worthy manner you have flown the flag of integrity for the University both in Nigeria and abroad, your past/future contributions to the development of your Alma mater (Unical) and your pride as an Alumnae”. “You are the face of University of Calabar.”

    The Unical honour has continued to attract loud ovations to the outspoken Medical Doctor famous for her humanitarian and welfarist inclination.

    For example, Unical’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi who personally conferred the honours on Dr Edu said: “We are very proud of My daughter, Doctor Betta Edu for always making the University proud.

    The 15th Emir of Kano, HRH Aminu Ado Bayero, commended Dr Edu as a shining stars of the younger generation who has continued to distinguished herself as a trailblazer in public service.

    Similarly, the Nigerian Union of Journalist, NUJ, in its congratulatory message to Dr Edu described the honours on her as ” a testament to Dr Edu’s unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service to humanity.”

    The NUJ, in the congratulatory message signed by its Chairman in Cross River State council, Comrade Bassey, further stressed that “Dr. Edu has continued to distinguish herself as a trailblazer in public service, and her contributions to healthcare, governance, and humanitarian efforts have brought immense pride to Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

    “Her recognition by UNICAL reflects not only her personal achievements but also the university’s legacy of producing leaders who make significant impacts both nationally and globally. We particularly commend her passionate commitment to giving back, as demonstrated by her pledge—on behalf of the Class of 2009 Medical School—to contribute ₦15 million towards the completion and equipping of the university’s new medical center.”

    The Council extolled Dr. Edu’s dedication to progress and nation-building, noting that “it is truly inspiring, and we have no doubt that she will continue to be a shining example of integrity, service, and leadership.”

    Other well meaning groups and individuals, from the South South, Niger Delta, Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt regions also congratulated Dr Edu on the well deserved award.

    They variously expressed optimism that the honour will spur Dr. Edu, a 2009 graduate of Unical’s Medical School, into doing more for humanity; the groups also wish her even greater heights in all her future endeavors.

    The political base of Dr Edu ,the APC,in Abi local Government Area of Cross River State, where she hails is not left out in the effusive praises and kind words. APC members in the council area and indeed the entire Ebi LGA are delighted that their beloved daughter has continued to attract national and international honours not only for herself but also for the council thus putting Abi and its people on the world map.

    Said Pastor Joshua Igboke, the Abi Local Government Area  APC Chapter Chairman: “On behalf of APC Abi Chapter and my family to felicitates Dr. Betta Edu, on her conferment of Award of honour as Unical Ambassador and induction into Unical Hall of Fame as Legacy Face of Unical during  Unical@50 Celebration/Award Ceremony.

    “Suffice it to say that, this well deserved recognition and award is a clear testament of your sterling leadership qualities as a notable and visionary leader par excellence with unwavering and uncommon sacrificial commitment towards influencing and impacting lives and humanity.

    “The Party is very proud of you as a shining star, pacesetter, trailblazer, mentor, destiny helper and pathfinder. Your uncommon and unprecedented achievements are overwhelming and highly commendable.

    “I hereby implore you to remain steadfast in you vision and determination to impact lives and humanity positively against all odds especially bettering  the lives of the less privileged.”

    Urbane, focused and cerebral, Dr Edu’s Unical honours highlights her huge goodwill base, immense public relations skill, dynamic, visionary leadership acumen and ceaseless nationalistic fervour.

    Unical, of course played a critical role in the iconic figure and role model that Dr Edu has become today, honing her leadership skill from her early days of her student activism as the Vice President of Unical’s Student Union Government, SUG.

    Edu herself recognizes Unical’s place in her rise to the top.According to her,  “Unical is my very powerful University that actually built the leadership skills in me.”

    As for me, since its about selfless service to humanity and Alma Mater, let the ovations, commendations and outpouring of love and congratulatory messages continues for this young, delectable and quintessential Nigerian medical Doctor because she deserves all the accolades.

    Congratulations, Dr Betta Edu, keep soaring higher!

    Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair ,ANIPR writes from Abuja.

    He can be reached on Rasheedolanrewaju75@gmail.com

  • PFN National Vice President Isong, Bags Religious Affairs Ambassadorial Award From Alma-Mater

    PFN National Vice President Isong, Bags Religious Affairs Ambassadorial Award From Alma-Mater

    By Nsan Ndoma-Neji

    As part of the activity to mark the celebration of Unical @50 Anniversary,  the University of Calabar (Unical) has conferred the prestigious award of honour called, “Religious Affairs Ambassador Award on the PFN National Vice President, Archbishop Dr Emmah Gospel Isong, as a way to encourage him to continue with rendering of selfless service to humanity.

    The award came barely 13 days after the institution recognized several personalities in Nigeria with awards of honour to distinguished personalities with track records in the socio-political landscape of the nation.

    Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Florence Obi stated that the award   to the cleric is in recognition of his tremendous contributions to  development of humanity and the society upholding the virtues and values that the institution stands for.

    Conferring the award on Isong in his office at Christian Central chapel International, a.k.a City of Testimonies Ikot Ene-Obong 8miles Calabar, Unical Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, said that the honour is in recognition to the cleric’s preaching exactly what Unical stands for.

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    Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dean, College of Graduate School and Chairman Unical at 50 Anniversary celebration, Prof. Eyong Ubana, and his team accompanied by Executive Secretary Unical NUGA games, Dr. Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe, stated that the honour is given to Isong following his ability to be preaching what Unical stands for.

    Obi averred that management of the school had over the years been following Isong’s track records and subsequently identified the cleric as a  shinning lights produced by the institution stressing that that alone qualified him to be a recipient of the award.

    “Your University has turned 50 years and as you know the motto of the University of Calabar is “knowledge for service” The knowledge you gained from the University  is for service to humanity.

    “One of the things we have done during this 50th Anniversary, is to give honour to those who has flown the flag of the institution.

    “We have identified Nigerians who graduated from that little place but are shining light, carrying the flag of the great University making the institution what it is to humanity.

    “We understand your contribution to humanity, we understand your contributions to our institution and to the few who are here.

    “We understand your contributions to the ones who are represented, and to the multitude out there.

    “We understand spiritual leadership and the tutelage that you have provided . We recognized what you are doing, that you are helping to propagate that which the university of Calabar stands for.

    “We understand that only very persons have the privilege to end the title Great Malabite (GM) you are a great man,” he maintained.

    In his reaction, PFN National Vice President South, South zone, Archisbishop Dr Emmah Isong expressed excitement, assuring management of his alma mater that the award will spur him to render more service to humanity.

  • UNICAL Set to Host International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems

    UNICAL Set to Host International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is set to host the 26th Annual International Conference of the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE), Nigeria chapter, from October 21 to 24, 2025. Themed “Communication and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Era of AI, Big Data, and Cultural Transformation,” the conference will bring together scholars, media professionals, and policymakers from across Africa and beyond.

    The University of Calabar’s  Department of Mass Communication, will be hosting event which aims to explore how Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) can be preserved and adapted in the face of rapid digital transformation. Key discussions will cover journalism, broadcasting, media ethics, public relations, advertising, and development communication, among other topics.

    Speaking on the significance of the conference, Dr. Lawrence Ekwok, Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, stated, “This conference will provide a crucial platform for academics and practitioners to discuss how indigenous knowledge can coexist with emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Virtual Reality.”

    The ACCE has called for abstract submissions from researchers interested in presenting at the conference, with a deadline set for August 24, 2025. Registration is open for early-bird participants until May 30, 2025, offering access to networking opportunities and discussions on the future of IKS in Africa’s communication landscape.

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    Prospective participants are encouraged to submit abstracts aligned with sub-themes, including journalism, public relations, advertising, and political communication. Abstracts, limited to 250 words, must be submitted by August 24, 2025, to accenigeriaconferences@gmail.com.

    Dr. Ibituru Pepple, ACCE National Secretary, reiterated the value of the conference, noting, “This event will challenge participants to think critically about how to preserve and adapt indigenous communication systems within modern frameworks.”

    The conference’s 14 sub-themes include critical areas such as media ethics, broadcasting studies, and science communication, reflecting its broad scope. Discussions will address long-standing challenges of IKS marginalization and offer strategies for its integration into Africa’s communication landscape

    With Nigeria and other African nations seeking to balance technological advancements with cultural preservation, the UNICAL-hosted conference is expected to contribute significantly to policy and academic discourse on indigenous knowledge integration in the digital age.

  • Dad bequeath to me spirituality and education – Dr Nyok

    Dad bequeath to me spirituality and education – Dr Nyok

    By Kelvin Obambon

    One of Cross River’s media activists and social change agents, Dr Efio-Ita Nyok, has said that his sojourn into the field of philosophy was not an accident, but rather a decision inspired by his upbringing and family values.

    Nyok stated this at the weekend during a reception organized to celebrate him on his convocation. He was among the very few scholars that were awarded PhDs by the University of Calabar (UNICAL). He was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Political Philosophy.

    Obtaining a PhD is no mean feat. Dr Nyok deserves to be celebrated. He has demonstrated uncommon courage, determination and resilience in the face of daunting challenges. His continued quest for knowledge reflects the value his family places on education.

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    Dr Nyok disclosed that although he had at some point opted to study medicine, he however did not regret his decision to settle for philosophy. He said that his parents brought him and his siblings up in a Christian way, and studying philosophy would help consolidate his spirituality and thus enable him contribute towards building a just and moral society.

    He thanked family members, friends and former course mates who encouraged and cheered him up while he was running the academic race. He now looks forward to investing his wealth of knowledge in fostering a progressively peaceful and harmonious society that is a sine qua non for social, political and economic development.

  • Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    By Blessing Enagu

    In the world of academia, stories of brilliance and dedication often stand out, but few narratives are as compelling as that of Professor Susana Ohen and her daughter Delight Ohen.
    Spanning over two decades, this is a tale of excellence, perseverance and an unbreakable legacy of excellence at the faculty of Agriculture, University of Calabar (UNICAL).

    The University of Calabar 37th Convocation ceremony and 50th anniversary is quite a remarkable day in the academic journey of Delight Ohen, as she convoked with distinction, emerging as the Best Graduating Student of the Department of Agricultural Economics with an impressive CGPA of 4.16. This feat is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

    Twenty-eight years ago, a young, determined undergraduate walked across the convocation stage at UNICAL, earning the coveted title of Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension, Faculty of Agriculture. That student was none other than Professor Susana Ohen, who, through sheer dedication and intellect, distinguished herself among her peers. At just 23 years old, she set herself on a remarkable trajectory, leading her to become a professor in agriculture and eventually the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at her alma mater.

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    Her journey was not just about personal success but about paving the way for future generations. From her early days as a researcher to her impactful role in academia, Professor Ohen has been an inspiration to students, colleagues, and the entire agricultural sector.

    Twenty eight years after, history has repeated itself as her daughter, Delight Ohen, stands tall, replicating and surpassing her mother’s achievement with distinction at the age of 22.
    She has etched her name in the history of UNICAL, emerging as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture. Her CGPA of 4.16 speaks volumes of her dedication, resilience, and passion for academic excellence.

    Delight’s choice of career is not by chance but deeply rooted in a passion and love for agriculture. She has always believed in the power of agriculture to drive economic transformation, ensure food security, and create sustainable livelihoods. For her, Agricultural Economics is more than just a discipline—it is a calling and a tool for impact. She has drawn immense inspiration from her mother, Prof. Susana Ohen, having witnessed firsthand how this field has shaped her mother’s success and allowed her to achieve greatness. Seeing her mother’s journey, dedication, and the impact she has made through agriculture, Delight was inspired to walk the same path, determined to make an even greater mark in the field.

    For Professor Susana Ohen, the moment is both emotional and fulfilling. “I feel fulfilled, excited, and grateful to God,” she says. She admits that she had some initial fears when Delight chose to study the same course, especially since it meant being in her professional space. However, she also had confidence in her daughter’s abilities. “She has always put in her best in everything she does,” Prof. Ohen reflects. While she knew Delight would be among the best, she did not expect her to emerge as the very best. This achievement has brought her immense pride and joy.

    Delight on her part is overwhelmed with gratitude to God and her parents for the grace and strong foundation that was laid.

    The story of this mother-daughter duo underscores the power of mentorship, determination, and the impact of a strong academic foundation.

    Delight’s achievement is more than a personal victory; it is an inspiration to younger students, a motivation to peers, and a beacon of hope for those striving for academic excellence. She has demonstrated that with focus, consistency, and the right attitude, greatness is attainable.

    As Delight steps into the next phase of her journey clinging 5 distinctive awards, her mother’s prayer and wish for her are clarity of purpose, open doors of opportunities, and a future filled with greatness. “May her path be illuminated with wisdom, and may she soar to even greater heights in her chosen field,” says Professor Ohen.

    As UNICAL celebrates this extraordinary milestone, the story of Professor Susana Ohen and Delight Ohen serves as an enduring reminder that true excellence is timeless—and sometimes, it runs in the family.

    Congratulations once again, Delight Ohen! The world awaits the impact of your brilliance. Keep shining!

  • UNICAL Honours Akpabio, Kalu, Edu Egwuonwu’s Legacies

    UNICAL Honours Akpabio, Kalu, Edu Egwuonwu’s Legacies

    The President of Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, Chief Chukwuemeka  Egwuonwu (CEO Peterson  Group) have been inducted into the University of Calabar’s prestigious Hall of Fame.

    The induction ceremony, which was held in Calabar had the wife of the senate president, Mrs. Ekaete Unoma Akpabio, the Acting Governor of Cross River State, Dr. Peter Odey alongside serving members of the national assembly business moguls including Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, Dr Ikechukwu Ukweh CEO Hogis Group and the crème de la crème of society.

    Senator Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative, Benjamin Kalu, who was the 37th convocation speaker, and the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu including the former gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Professor Sandy Onor, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Peterson Group, Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu amongst others were honoured for their contributions to humanity.

    Reacting to the gesture, Senator Akpabio, who thanked the Nigerian President for efforts to enshrine peace in Rivers State with the declaration of a State of Emergency for the warring factions to broker peace, recalled with nostalgia his journey as a student in the University of Calabar.

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    “I have a brand new bus for the Faculty of Law and another for the Student Union Government (SUG) of this university, since I was a former Speaker of the SUG. I encourage you to take your education serious and urged us to support the growth of education and the university. I dedicate this award to the glory of God.”

    Similarly, the former minister, Dr. Edu commended the institution for finding her worthy, saying “it is a privilege to be honoured and I thank God almighty for the opportunity to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of this university that actually built leadership skills in me. I also thank everyone, who has contributed to the height I have attained today in Nigeria especially President Bola Tinubu.

    “On behalf of me and Class 2009 medical students, we are contributing to the completion of the institution’s medical centre. We will not only complete the structures, but we are going to fully provide the equipment needed to function optimally,” she hinted.

    Edu further stated, “I believe very strongly that with the student loans and other interventions of the Nigerian Government to the university, we will have greater, stronger citizens, who will make their impact in society, for the poor, needy, economy, digitization of our nation and its processes. I believe strongly that the future is bright for education in Nigeria.”

    Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Florence Obi, who performed the induction ceremony with the presentation of awards to the distinguished Nigerians, explained that it was the universities way of appreciating the contributions of its alumni to the growth of education and society.

    She added, “we are celebrating 50 years of impactful service to the growth of humanity. Right from 1975 when the University of Calabar was founded, we have graduated nearly 200 thousand graduates, who are leaving their imprints across the globe. These alumni have, in their different fields contributed to development of humanity and Nigeria in particular.”

    Speaking with newsmen, Chief Chukwuemeka  Egwuonwu,  CEP Peterson  Group  who lauded the Vice Chancellor for her giant strides in the University, disclosed that education has made a huge impact on him as a business mogul.

    “I must tell you the truth that education has  deeply widened  my horizon and reshaped my thinking and how I do business, and I’m not stopping anytime soon till I get my Doctorate degree.

    “I want to thank my wife, my children  for all their support, I thank the Vice Chancellor for finding me worthy and honoring me, I’m indeed humbled by his recognition,” he said.

  • 37th Convocation: Akpabio, Wike among 13,786 to bag UNICAL degrees

    37th Convocation: Akpabio, Wike among 13,786 to bag UNICAL degrees

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has disclosed that the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike will be among the 13,786 people that will be awarded degrees at the 37th Convocation of the institution.

    The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, who made this known on Monday during a press briefing in Calabar, stated that Akpabio, Wike, Unoma Akpabio, Governor Bassey Otu, Major Gen. Moses Obi, Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim and Prince Arthur Eze would be awarded Honorary Doctorate Degrees.

    The 37th Convocation is viewed by the University community as unique because it coincides with the 50th anniversary celebration of UNICAL. The event will take place from March 17 to March 23, 2025, featuring various activities aimed at celebrating the institution’s achievements and recognizing its outstanding alumni, staff and students.

    Obi whose administration is winding down in few months time, revealed that the University of Calabar since its founding in 1975 to date, has churned out 168,786 graduates in diverse areas of human endeavour. She said the 37th Convocation which is obviously the last she will perform as head of the institution, would see a total of 13,786 persons conferred with various degrees.

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    According to her, “On Friday March 21st is a day set aside for the award of Master, First Degrees and Diplomas as well as induction into UNICAL Alumni Association. The event is slated for 11am at the Abraham Odiah Stadium, University of Calabar. We are expecting 12,726 graduands for the Friday convocation. The breakdown shows that 181 will be receiving diploma certificates, 11,725 will be receiving first degrees, while 877 will be receiving Master Degrees, 572 will be having PhDs, 249 will be having post graduate diploma. And we have 7 for the first time in the history of the University will be awarded post doctoral diploma in education.

    “Further breakdown of the two convocation events – the one of Friday and the one of Saturday, shows that in all, we will be having 13,786 graduands. Out of this, 66 students have first class, the highest in the history of the University. 3,054 will have second class upper. 7,450 will have second class lower. 925 will have third class. 7 will have pass. For the diploma certificates, 4 graduands will be awarded distinction. 135 will have merit and 42 will have credit.”

    The VC reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates equipped to compete globally, stating that “as an institution, we remain focused on academic excellence, research and community impact.”

  • NDDC to donate refuse bins to UNICAL, UNICROSS

    NDDC to donate refuse bins to UNICAL, UNICROSS

     

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is due to donate 70 refuse bins to the University of Calabar (UNICAL) and the University of Cross River (UNICROSS) in an ongoing effort to complement the state’s drive towards effective waste management.

    The refuse bins arrived the state on Sunday March 9, 2025.
    The interventionist agency had pledged 300 refuse bins to Cross River as part of a broader commitment to foster environmental sustainability and public health initiatives in the Niger Delta region through effective waste disposal.

    In February 2024 the first batch consisting of 13 waste bins were delivered to the state. In June a second batch of 10 waste bins were delivered, 30 dumpsters came in December of the same year, and 15 were brought in January 2025, and this latest arrival of 70, bringing the total waste bins delivered so far to 138.

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    The Commissioner representing the state in NDDC, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, affirmed that the Commission “will donate 300 bins in total to cover the whole of Cross River State.”