The thanksgiving service in honour of the 12th Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, drew an array of eminent personalities and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate what was widely described as a manifestation of divine favour and timing.
Delivering the sermon, the Prelate of the Presbyterian Church, His Eminence Ekpenyong Akpanika, emphasized that Prof. Offiong’s emergence was orchestrated by God, noting that it transcended human qualification and effort.
Referencing Psalms 100 and 124, alongside 1 Thessalonians 5:21–24, he described thanksgiving as a divine command for believers in all circumstances.
He recalled how the Vice Chancellor had previously contested for the position five years ago without success, only to emerge victorious at the appointed time. According to him, this clearly illustrates that “there is a time and season for everyone,” stressing that when one’s season of promotion arrives, no obstacle can stand in the way.
“Promotion comes from God,” he said, citing scriptural references to buttress his message, while urging believers to remain patient and steadfast, regardless of their background or present circumstances.
The cleric further described testimony as a combination of “test” and “memory,” representing the journey through life’s trials and God’s sustaining grace, noting that thanksgiving not only acknowledges God’s role in human success but also transforms personal achievements into public testimonies that inspire others.
Highlighting the need for humility, he stated that recognizing God as the source of success keeps individuals grounded and focused.
He admonished the Vice Chancellor to remain prayerful and not allow the demands of leadership to overshadow his dependence on God.
In his remarks the Vice Chancellor of the university of Calabar,, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for His faithfulness to him and his family, acknowledging that his emergence as Vice Chancellor was purely by divine favour and not personal merit.
Prof. Offiong said, ” My emergence as Vice Chancellor was indeed my season of divine settlement and I thank him for elevating me”
He appreciated the support of the Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu whom he noted he has known for over 45 years, as well as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, members of the Council, and all those who played roles in his emergence.
He also thanked the management, staff, and students of the university, describing them as a new family entrusted to him in this new phase of leadership.
The event witnessed the presence of several prominent Nigerians, including former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Samuel Nkanu Onnoghen; former Senate Leader of the 8th National Assembly, Sen. Udoma Egba, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council; DIG Udom Ekpoudom rtd,v the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Owan Enoh; the Chief Judge of Cross River State, as well as senior government officials.
Also in attendance were members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, the Chairman of Calabar Local Government Area, members of the University Governing Council, principal officers of the university, provosts of colleges, deans of faculties, directors, heads of departments, as well as staff and students of the institution.
The thanksgiving service ended on a note of renewed faith and hope, with a strong message that God’s timing is perfect and that every season of waiting ultimately gives way to a season of fulfillment.
Public Relations Unit
University of Calabar