In a gesture of appreciation and goodwill, the Government of Cross River State on Friday, October 31, 2025, hosted members of the University of Calabar (Unical) Governing Council to a dinner in recognition of their mature and peaceful conduct during the recently concluded selection process that produced Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong as the University’s 12th Vice Chancellor.
The dinner, coordinated by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Hospitality, Mr. Albert Kusi, was held in Calabar and attended by members of the University Council led by DIG Udom Ekpoudom (Rtd), the outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Banku Obi, Deputy Vice Chancellors, the Registrar, council members, and other senior officials of the institution.
Welcoming guests on behalf of the state government, Mr. Kusi stated that the dinner was part of the administration’s effort to foster cordial relations and offer the University Council a relaxed atmosphere to round off their week-long activities in Calabar.
In her remarks, Prof. Florence Obi expressed profound gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu for his consistent hospitality and support to the University. She commended the fair and transparent process that led to the emergence of Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong as the Vice Chancellor-designate, urging all parties to rally behind the new leadership. Prof. Obi also praised the Governor for maintaining neutrality throughout the process, which she described as a demonstration of leadership integrity and respect for institutional autonomy.
Representing the Governor at the event, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, conveyed His Excellency’s regrets for being unavoidably absent due to national engagements outside the country. He extended the Governor’s appreciation to the University Council for ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition process.
Dr. Ironbar reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment to strengthening the partnership between the state government and the University of Calabar, highlighting the institution’s contributions to education and development in Cross River State. He also lauded Prof. Florence Obi for her remarkable achievements and congratulated Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong on his appointment, urging him to build on his predecessor’s legacy and further elevate the University’s academic standards.
The evening concluded with an after-dinner social session and dance, leaving guests in high spirits as they departed in a joyful and relaxed mood.
