UNICAL Vice Chancellor Declares War on Admission Fraud and Certificate Racketeering
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Offiong, has announced a comprehensive and aggressive crackdown on admission irregularities, certificate racketeering, and other deeply entrenched malpractices within the institution. In a firm warning issued today, he stated that perpetrators will be exposed and prosecuted without hesitation, marking a significant shift in the university's approach to governance and integrity.
Disciplinary Actions and Reforms Underway
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Senate Chambers to herald the university's 38th convocation ceremony, Prof. Offiong revealed that the administration has already initiated disciplinary action against officials linked to over-admission practices. He emphasized that the era of unchecked abuses is definitively over, with a zero-tolerance policy now in place. "We have taken a firm position, no more over-admissions. The officer under whose watch this persisted is currently facing disciplinary action," he declared, underscoring the administration's commitment to accountability.
Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that the university is actively tracking individuals involved in forging certificates and signatures of past principal officers, labeling them as "enemies" of the institution. "We are tracking those behind the printing of fake certificates in business centres. Once apprehended, we will not hesitate to expose them," he added, highlighting the seriousness of these fraudulent activities.
Convocation and Vision for Excellence
Despite the ongoing reform efforts, UNICAL is set to graduate no fewer than 10,820 students during its 38th convocation ceremony, scheduled to take place between April 2 and April 12, 2026. Prof. Offiong noted that this convocation holds particular significance as it marks the first under his leadership since assuming office in December 2025. He reiterated that his vision for the institution is firmly anchored on three core pillars:
- Excellence in academic and administrative standards
- Innovation through technological advancements
- Integrity to restore public confidence in the university's systems
To support this vision, immediate reforms have been implemented, including the reinstatement of the Central Admissions Committee. This committee is tasked with ensuring transparency and strict adherence to approved admission quotas, thereby preventing future irregularities.
Comprehensive Digitalisation and Infrastructure Improvements
In a move to address long-standing administrative challenges, Prof. Offiong announced that UNICAL has commenced a comprehensive digitalisation of its records and operations. This initiative aims to streamline processes such as transcript processing and verification, enhancing overall administrative efficiency. Additionally, efforts are underway to tackle infrastructural deficits, improve student welfare, strengthen campus security, and upgrade teaching and learning facilities across the university.
The Vice Chancellor acknowledged that while these reforms are still in their early stages, the administration remains steadfast in its commitment to reversing years of negative perceptions associated with the institution. He stressed that employment processes will henceforth be merit-driven, open, and subject to regulatory approvals, with a stern warning to the public against paying for jobs or admission.
Convocation Programme Highlights
As part of the convocation programme, a lecture on national security will be delivered by Garba Ayodeji Wahab, focusing on the critical role of tertiary institutions in addressing Nigeria's security challenges. Other activities lined up for the event include:
- A research fair and exhibition to showcase academic innovations
- Alumni engagements to foster community and support
- Award of degrees and diplomas to graduating students
- Conferment of honorary degrees to distinguished individuals
- Launch of an endowment fund to support future initiatives
This crackdown and reform agenda represent a pivotal moment for UNICAL, as it seeks to uphold academic integrity and rebuild trust within the educational landscape of Nigeria.
