By Lawrence Mpama
As the University of Calabar prepares to celebrate its 50years as an institution, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Florence Banku Obi, has taken every necessary step and put in place the needed apparatus not just to have a hitch free, but eventful celebration that will leave indelible mark and lasting memories in the hearts of members, friends and well wishers of the institution for a very long time.
The anniversary celebration which is tagged “50 Years of Impactful Knowledge and Service to Humanity,” will reflects on the University’s journey from its inception in 1975 to its current status, as one of Nigeria’s leading academic institutions.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that, the significance of the milestone, pointing out that the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the University’s growth and achievements over the decades.
Prof. Obi praised the collaborative efforts of the University Council, Senate, Management, Alumni, Staff, and Students in organising the events, which will culminate in March 2025 convocation.
She highlighted the Humble beginning of the University, which was established, as a campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1973,to the present Academic Excellence. She asserted that, the University of Calabar became an autonomous institution in 1975 during Nigeria’s cultural renaissance and the Federal Government’s expansion of higher education.
Prof. Banku – Obi explained that, at its inception, the University had a modest student population of 406, supported by 156 academic and administrative staff under the leadership of its pioneer VC, Prof. Donald Ekong.
Over the years, UNICAL has grown into a world-class institution with a student population exceeding 40,000 and over 8,000 staff members. Initially comprising three faculties—Arts, Science, and Social Sciences—the University now boasts 21 faculties, 123 academic departments, a College of Medical Sciences, and a College of Postgraduate Studies, alongside several institutes and centres of excellence. The Faculties of Computing and Mass Communication are expected to take off within the present 2024/2025 Academic Year.
The Vice-Chancellor paid tribute to the University’s founding fathers , including its first Vice-Chancellor, the late Prof. Emmanuel Ayandele, whose vision laid the groundwork for its transformation. She also acknowledged the contributions of other past leaders and staff, noting their indelible impact on the University’s development.
The Vice-Chancellor unveiled an array of activities scheduled to celebrate the anniversary, including a colloquium in January 2025, an alumni book presentation, a reunion/homecoming, an anniversary lecture and exhibition, and an awards and fundraising dinner in March 2025. A key feature of the celebrations will involve naming streets, faculties, hostels, and buildings after past Vice-Chancellors and distinguished alumni.
The first female Vice-Chancellor of the University also outlined the goals of the anniversary, which include:
Developing a sporting and recreational facilities in preparation for hosting the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games in 2026.
Commencing work on a modern Senate Building befitting a 50-year-old University.
Constructing a Convocation Arena for academic ceremonies.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism about the event’s success, noting that many alumni and supporters have already pledged their involvement.
A Legacy of Impact
Reflecting on the University’s journey, Prof. Obi underscored its achievements in academia, infrastructure, and societal contributions, positioning it as a hub of knowledge and innovation. She called on stakeholders, including alumni, staff, and the media, to actively participate in the celebrations and promote the UNICAL brand globally.
The 50th-anniversary celebrations mark a defining moment for the University of Calabar as it continues its mission of delivering impactful knowledge and service to humanity.
Lawrence Mpama is the Publisher and Managing Editor of Cross Atlantic Newspapers, former Editor of Watchman Magazine.
