It is with profound honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I (Comr. Emmanuel Obo) address you today.
Upon assuming the mandate to lead over forty-five thousand vibrant and resilient students of our great institution, I was immediately confronted with a reality that many of us have endured for years—the deplorable condition of hostel mattresses across our halls of residence. As a proud Malabite who has personally resided in the hostels since my first year, I understood this challenge not merely as an administrative concern, but as a lived experience shared by countless students.
Consequently, from the very inception of this administration, it became both a moral obligation and a leadership priority to pursue a meaningful intervention that would directly improve the welfare and living conditions of Malabites and Malabresses.
Guided by the vision of the COMPASS administration a leadership philosophy built on direction, purpose, and service—we resolved that the welfare of students must remain the true north of our leadership.
I am therefore delighted to announce that on the 6th day of March, 2026, that vision was translated into reality. Under the leadership of the Students’ Union Government, we successfully procured and delivered 500 brand new mattresses, dedicated exclusively for the use and comfort of students residing within our hostels.
This milestone represents more than the provision of mattresses; it symbolizes a commitment to dignity, welfare, and the collective well-being of every Malabite and Malabress.m
At this juncture, it is both proper and necessary to extend my sincere appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Offiong E. Offiong, and the entire university management whose unwavering support and adherence to a Students-First policy played a crucial role in making this initiative possible. Their cooperation demonstrates a shared vision for a university environment that prioritizes the comfort, safety, and welfare of its students.
Distinguished Malabites and Malabresses, this project marks only the beginning. Guided by the COMPASS of purposeful leadership, this administration will continue to navigate with clarity and determination—deploying every available instrument of leadership to initiate impactful programmes and deliver meaningful projects that will positively transform the student community.
The journey continues, and together we shall build a student experience worthy of the greatness of our university.
Thank you.
EMMANUEL OBO
President, Students’ Union Government.
University of Calabar
