Tag: UniCAL

 

By Bassey Asuquo
Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  The Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Calabar  has hosted officials of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during a landmark academic engagement and outreach programme.

Welcoming the IMF delegation and participants, at the University of Calabar Senate Chambers, the Head of the Department of Economics, Professor Greg Ekpung Edame, expressed appreciation to the Fund for selecting the University of Calabar as one of the institutions for the nationwide engagement.

This was disclosed in a statement by the University’s Public Relations Unit, a copy of which was made available to Flowerbudnews.

He noted that similar programmes had been conducted in other universities across the country and described the visit as a significant opportunity for students and academics to gain direct insight into the operations and impact of the IMF on the global economy.

Prof. Edame explained that the IMF plays a critical role in supporting countries facing economic challenges and promoting stability within the international monetary system.

He encouraged participants, including students from the University of Calabar and neighbouring institutions, to take full advantage of the session by engaging with the presentations and discussions.

Also, the Economist at the IMF Abuja Office, Miss Nene Ikpechukwu, one of the resource persons, delivered an extensive presentation on the Fund’s mandate of promoting global economic and financial stability, facilitating international trade, supporting sustainable economic growth, and reducing poverty through surveillance, lending, and capacity development programmes.

She introduced participants to the IMF’s structure, flagship publications, and analytical framework for assessing economic performance across the real, fiscal, external, and monetary sectors.

The session also highlighted various career opportunities available within the organization, including internship programmes, economist tracks, and other professional pathways for students and young graduates interested in international development and economic policy.

Miss Ikpechukwu further examined key risks facing the global economy in the 2026–2027 period, including inflationary pressures, rising commodity prices, insecurity, climate-related shocks, and tighter global financial conditions.

According to the IMF, these challenges could slow economic growth and place additional fiscal and social pressures on countries worldwide.

Addressing Nigeria’s economic outlook, the Resident Representative of the IMF Abuja Office, Mr. Christian Ebeke, recommended the adoption of a neutral fiscal stance in 2026, with emphasis on protecting social expenditures, enhancing domestic revenue mobilization, strengthening budget transparency, and expanding social safety net programmes.

He also advocated for the continuation of a tight monetary policy to contain inflation, promote private sector credit growth, strengthen financial sector resilience, and improve regulatory oversight of emerging financial technologies, including stablecoins.

In his closing remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Enang Udah, mentioned that the engagement provided participants with valuable exposure to contemporary global economic issues and reinforced the Department of Economics’ commitment to broadening students’ academic and professional horizons through strategic partnerships with leading international institutions.

This was even as he encouraged the students to work hard to meet the criteria and standards of the IMF in order to achieve their set goals.

The event featured a ‘fire-side’ chat session with two stellar students of the Department of Economics, University of Calabar; Udah, Nathaniel Enang and Akpama, Natasha-K’Bay Etom, as well as, a robust question and answer session involving students of the Cross River University of Education, Akamkpa, and the Author Jarvis University, Akpabuyo.

 

 

Flowerbudnews

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong, has called on institutional stakeholders to embrace the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank, NERD, for research and documentation of data as a means of advancing the education sector.

Prof. Offiong gave the charge at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre during a one-day sensitisation and training symposium organised by the University of Calabar in collaboration with NERD with the theme “Understanding the Operational Framework and Core Values of NERD”.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Linkages and Collaboration, Prof. Anthony Eneji, the Vice-Chancellor commended the Federal Ministry of Education and the NERD implementation team for introducing the initiative, and urged participants to maximise the opportunity provided by the symposium.

The University administrator described NERD as a transformative initiative capable of repositioning the Nigerian education sector for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.

The Vice-Chancellor stated that educational institutions can no longer rely solely on traditional methods of record keeping in an era driven by technology and information management.

Prof. Offiong emphasised the need for universities to adopt modern systems that promote transparency, accessibility, and preservation of institutional knowledge.

The University helmsman noted that universities generate enormous volumes of academic information through teaching, research, community service, and administrative activities.

He stressed that proper documentation and preservation of these resources are critical for institutional growth and national development.

According to him, the establishment of a centralised educational repository would not only safeguard valuable academic materials but also improve research visibility, facilitate collaboration among institutions, and provide policymakers with credible data for informed decision-making.

He further urged educational administrators, researchers, and students to embrace the project wholeheartedly and contribute meaningfully to its successful implementation.

Earlier, the University Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Chukwuka I. Icha, expressed delight at the presence of the NERD team and participants from the institution.

Dr Icha represented by the NERD Record Officer, Mr Onen Ubi described the symposium as a significant step toward strengthening educational development through effective data management.

According to her, the initiative represents a strategic effort to preserve educational records, improve accessibility to academic resources, and enhance policy formulation through reliable data systems.

She noted that the University of Calabar remains committed to supporting programmes and innovations capable of improving the quality and administration of higher education in Nigeria.

Also speaking, the NERD Focal Officer, Dr. Mrs. Violet Eneyo, emphasised the importance of the programme, describing it as timely, strategic, and necessary in an era where universities are increasingly expected to embrace digital compliance and effective knowledge management.

Dr. Violet noted that NERD serves as a national academic platform designed to improve access to educational resources, promote innovation, strengthen institutional visibility, and encourage responsible knowledge sharing across educational institutions in Nigeria.

The Focal Officer further stressed that the success of the NERD initiative depends on the collective commitment of all stakeholders.

She urged members of staff to familiarise themselves with the operational framework of the platform and ensure accurate academic documentation, while encouraging students to engage responsibly with the repository by correctly uploading academic materials.

She also called on departments and units within the university to work collaboratively toward achieving timely compliance and sustaining the institution’s academic standards.

NERD representative, Mr. Victor Etta Ekpeyong, stated that the gathering was not merely for information dissemination but also to equip participants with practical knowledge necessary for effective participation in the NERD ecosystem.

He expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong, for his visionary leadership and support, while commending participants for their commitment to advancing academic excellence and institutional development.

The event featured question-and-answer sessions and a call for all stakeholders to actively engage with the platform in order to enhance research visibility, knowledge preservation, and the overall academic standing of the University of Calabar.

(Public Relations Unit
University of Calabar)

 

 

By Flowerbudnews

Calabar:  On June 5th 2026, students of the University of Calabar International Demonstration Secondary School lit up the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, and walked away with 1st Place and ₦500,000 at the Cross River State World Environment Day Celebration.

Competing under the theme “Ways Students Can Help Build a Sustainable Future,” the UCIDSS team stunned judges, commissioners, permanent secretaries, and senior government officials with 5 working prototypes that form a complete green cycle for community living.

From JSS 1 to SS 1, guided by their brilliant mentor Kristy Oko, these students didn’t just talk sustainability, they built it.

Their vision: homes made from eco-bricks that teach green living, rainwater systems that conserve every drop, cooling chambers that cut post-harvest loss, waste-to-wealth initiatives that turn farm residue into fertilizer and feed, and smokeless cookers powered by biomass pellets for clean energy. Each project was presented live, functional, and ready for real communities.

Out of over ten secondary schools, UCIDSS stood tallest for creativity, teamwork, and purpose driven innovation. This win isn’t just a trophy; it’s proof that when young minds are given guidance and space to dream, they can design solutions for the planet’s toughest challenges.

Bravo to the Vice Chancellor, Principal, School Management, Staff, Students, and Coach Kristy Oko. The future is green, and it’s in good hands.

To God be all the glory!

E-signed

Principal , *UCIDSS*

 

By Bassey Asuquo

Calabar:  The162nd Inaugural Lecture of the University of Calabar is set to hold on Wednesday June 3rd at Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre in Calabar .

The Lecture titled, “Implementation Of Economic, Social and Cultural Right In Nigeria: From Retrogressive Rhetoric To Progressive Realisation ” will start from 3pm, a statement by the University’s Public Relations Unit disclosed.

The Lecture ”will be delivered by an International Scholar of Human Rights Law,:Faculty of Law, Prof Jacob Abiodun Dada of the University.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong is expected to grace the occasion as Chairman and Chief Host.

The statement announced that members of the University Community and the General Public are by this notice invited to attend this enriching Intellectual Feast. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

 

 

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has approved the appointment of Prof. Anne E. Asuquo of the department of Medical Bacteriology, Virology and Mycology and Prof. Eyo Emmanuel Essien of the Department of marketing as acting Provost and acting deputy Provost for the College of Post Graduate Studies respectively.

The appointments conveyed in separate letters and signed by the Vice Chancellor of the institution indicates that both appointments are for a period of six (6) months in the first instance, with effect from 13th April, 2026.

According to their letter of appointment, they are expected to discharge their duties diligently by effectively administering the college for optimal productivity and ensuring compliance with the laid down rules and regulations of the University, a statement by the University’s Public Relations Unit
disclosed.

Th acting Deputy Provost, as conveyed by the letter, is expected to work directly under the acting Provost.

Accordingly, As appointees of the Vice-Chancellor, they are required to align with the mission and vision of the current administration, while upholding the values and expectations of the University at all times.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasizes that the acting Provost is to ensure that modalities are put in place for the election of a substantive Provost of the College on the floor of the Senate at the end of her six (6) months of office

This is even as relevant sections of the University have been directed to accord them all courtesies associated with their new offices.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

By Bassey Asuquo

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has called for a strategic partnership between the University and MTN Nigeria to strengthen digital infrastructure and promote sports development in the institution.

Prof. Offiong made the call when a delegation from MTN Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to his office, held at the Vice Chancellor Conference room.

Welcoming the team, the Vice-Chancellor commended MTN Nigeria for recognising the role the University played in shaping its alumni and for returning to honour the institution.

He described the representatives of the telecommunications company as great ambassadors of the University, noting that the University of Calabar has produced outstanding men and women who are excelling in different fields of endeavour across the country.

According to him, the University has come of age, particularly following the celebration of its 50th anniversary, and is currently pursuing major reforms aimed at improving administrative efficiency and academic excellence.

Prof. Offiong disclosed that the University has begun the digitalisation of key administrative processes, including the promotion of both academic and non-teaching staff, adding that the institution is working towards a fully digital record system that will simplify documentation processes, including transcript generation.

However, he identified poor network connectivity on campus as a major challenge affecting the smooth implementation of these initiatives while urging MTN Nigeria to support the University in improving network infrastructure within the campus to enhance digital operations.

He also revealed that the University is among the beneficiaries of a World Bank ICT intervention programme, which is expected to significantly upgrade ICT facilities and further strengthen digital processing within the institution.

Prof. Offiong, who noted that collaboration between the University and MTN Nigeria would be beneficial in advancing the institution’s digital transformation agenda, stated that the University of Calabar remains one of the leading institutions in sports among Nigerian universities and will host the NUGA Games later in the year.

He explained that the University intends to use the opportunity of hosting the games to upgrade its sporting facilities and called on MTN Nigeria to partner with the institution to ensure a successful tournament.

He recalled that the University previously hosted the NUGA Games in 1990 but noted that there was little to show in terms of lasting sporting and recreational infrastructure after the event.

This is even as he expressed optimism that a renewed partnership with MTN Nigeria would help the University build sustainable facilities while maintaining its tradition of academic excellence.

“We want to see MTN Nigeria as a reliable partner in achieving these goals,” the Vice-Chancellor said, stressing that while the University remains committed to sports development, it will not compromise its core mandate of maintaining high academic standards.

Earlier, the Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, Mrs. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, said the team was at the University to pay homage to an institution that played a significant role in shaping the lives and careers of many members of the company’s workforce.

She said they are in Cross River State for the MTN Nigeria’s Youth Athletics Championship being hosted by Calabar noting that Cross River State remains a very strategic state to MTN Nigeria, describing it as a long-standing partner in progress with the telecommunications company over the years.

She recalled that MTN Nigeria first brought the championship to Cross River State in 2024, noting that the event recorded impressive participation and helped identify promising young athletes.

The Chief Marketing Officer further revealed that one of the beneficiaries of the programme, Destiny Reuben, is a student of the University of Calabar and has since been admitted into the MTN Athletics Training Programme, where she is currently undergoing professional training aimed at developing her into a world-class athlete capable of competing both locally and internationally.

Mrs. Ikenna-Emeka stated that MTN Nigeria was excited to return to Cross River State for the fourth season of the MTN Champs Athletics Championship.

She also commended the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong for his progressive leadership, particularly in the areas of policy direction, infrastructural development, and gender inclusiveness in appointments within the University’s management team.

Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ekaette Enang; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Afam Okiwelu; the Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Chukwuka Icha; the Bursar, Mr. Joseph Odum; MTN Regional Sales Manager, Chibuzo Akuchie, and other members of the University management and MTN Nigeria delegation.

#Public Relations Unit
University of Calabar

 

By Bassey Asuquo

The Management of the University of Calabar has announced the commencement of payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) to the academic staff of the institution.

According to a memo issued by the Bursary Department and signed by the University Bursar, Prince Joseph Odum, the payment recently credited to the accounts of academic staff represents the CATA for January 2026.

The memo further explains that the payment follows the directive of the Federal Ministry of Education, which instructed universities across the country to begin implementation of the allowance for eligible academic staff.

It notes that the allowance forms part of the agreement reached between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities in 2025.

The implementation was subsequently circularized by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, with effect from 1 January 2026.

Management also clarified that subsequent payments of the allowance will be integrated into the regular monthly salary of academic staff.

#Public Relations Unit, University of Calabar

 

By. Flowerbudnews

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has charged the Directorate of Sports and the University Sports Council to adopt a deliberate, strategic, and result-oriented approach towards ensuring a convincing victory at the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) games to be hosted by the University.

Prof. Offiong, gave the charge during his maiden visit to the Directorate of Sports, where he interacted with officials of the Sports Council.

Prof. Offiong who commended the Sports Council for making measurable progress with limited facilities, stressed that, the statistics revealed the need for improvement.

“Out of many sporting events, we participated in only a few, and that is not good enough.

“We must be deliberate about winning the upcoming NUGA Games convincingly”, the Vice Chancellor said.

This is even as he assured the Directorate of Sports of Management’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure, noting that while some basic tools such as grass-cutting machines had been provided, they were far from adequate.

He emphasized the urgent need for standard sports equipment, a well-equipped storage facility to prevent damage, and a permanent security post at the sports complex.

The Varsity administrator also directed that strategic collaborations be established with the Cross River State Sports Council and if need be, the Akwa Ibom State Sports Council to source experienced coaches where necessary.

The Vice Chancellor said the university would not hesitate to hire coaches to strengthen its teams, directing that immediate engagement with the Cross River State Sports Council commences to secure coaches and equipment ahead of upcoming competitions.

In a major policy directive aimed at boosting student participation, Prof. Offiong announced that management would propose to the Senate a lecture-free sports period every Wednesday by 1:00 pm in the next academic semester.

He further revealed that management had begun engaging with corporate organizations for sponsorship and support, disclosing that meetings with managing directors of some companies are yielding positive prospects for funding sports development in the institution.

Prof. Offiong harped on the importance of effective sports management, including; students sensitization, early talent identification, and proper maintenance of sporting facilities.

He assured the Sports Directorate that sports activities would remain continuous beyond NUGA games, noting that, the university must sustain the momentum for future tournaments and students’ sports development.

The Chairman of the University of Calabar Sports Council, Prof. Lucas Ogunjimi, thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the visit and highlighted the modest achievements the Council has recorded despite limited resources.

He noted that in 2025, the University participated in the Moniepoint-sponsored 5-aside tournament and won silver, while University of Calabar staff placed 4th out of 36 institutions in a nationwide competition held at Bayero University Kano.

He further disclosed that the university placed 13th on the medal log out of 91 universities nationwide, adding that participation was limited to six out of twenty-three events for obvious reasons.