The outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, has declared that her primary legacy will be her relentless battle against sexual harassment and the systemic delay of students' results within the institution.
A Legacy of Student Protection
Prof. Obi made this powerful statement on Friday night during a special event organized by the university to mark the conclusion of her five-year tenure. She was appointed as the 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor on September 10, 2020, and officially began her term on December 1, 2020. Her tenure officially concludes on November 30, 2025.
Reflecting on her administration, she emphasized that her commitment to safeguarding students, particularly female students, stands as one of her most significant accomplishments. "I fought against sexual predators and ensured the timely release of students' results to curb frustration within the institution," she stated firmly.
Infrastructural and Academic Milestones
Beyond her core focus on student welfare, Prof. Obi's leadership oversaw substantial infrastructural and academic development. Under her watch, the university witnessed the construction of the largest solar power plant in Cross River State, which now provides stable electricity for the university and its affiliated teaching hospital.
Other notable achievements during her five-year tenure include:
- Upgrading the Faculty of Education to a College.
- Securing accreditation for Mass Communication and elevating it to a Faculty.
- Constructing new student hostels.
- Introducing departmental scholarship schemes.
- Building a new fire service station.
- Completing the Law Faculty complex.
Transition and Future Plans
Expressing fulfillment at completing her tenure, Prof. Obi thanked God for enabling her to "finish strong" after five years in office. She revealed that she plans to return to the classroom, affirming that teaching remains her passion.
Earlier, during a vibrant, carnival-like parade held in her honor outside her office, she addressed staff and students, thanking them for their support. She also encouraged the university community to extend the same level of support to her successor to ensure continued progress. "This institution has recorded significant growth and I am confident that my successor will advance the progress already made," she remarked.
In a separate development, the Governing Council of Umaru Musa Yar'adua University (UMYU) in Katsina has approved the promotion of 113 academic staff. According to a statement from Hajiya Nabila Dahiru-Anche, the promotion, effective from October 1, was ratified during the council's 56th meeting held on November 27.
The breakdown of the promotions at UMYU is as follows:
- 19 staff promoted to Professors
- 20 promoted to Readers
- 31 promoted to Senior Lecturers
- 17 promoted to Lecturer I
- 26 promoted to Lecturer II
The meeting also welcomed the newly appointed Pro-Chancellor, Sen. Hadi Abubakar-Sirika, and approved a 100 percent upward review of the wages for the university's cleaners.
