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Ukorebi esien | December 3, 2025
CALABAR - The newly inaugurated 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong, has pledged to stamp out admission racketeering, indiscipline, and all forms of administrative and academic corruption within the institution. He made the declaration on Monday during his official investiture held at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, Calabar.
Prof. Offiong, who assumed office following his confirmation by the university's governing council, outlined a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at repositioning UNICAL for excellence. Central to his vision is the eradication of fraudulent admission practices, a recurrent challenge that has dented the institution's reputation in recent years.
The Vice-Chancellor announced the reactivation of the Central Admissions Committee, insisting that "all admissions must strictly follow due process and JAMB guidelines." He warned that his administration would maintain zero tolerance for racketeering, illegal payments, and manipulation of admission lists, stressing that there would be "no sacred cows" in the enforcement of discipline.
Prof. Offiong also condemned the growing trend of fraudulent NYSC mobilisation and indiscipline among staff and students. He assured that robust internal monitoring systems and stronger disciplinary measures would be implemented to restore integrity to the university's operations.
Beyond discipline, the new VC unveiled a 12-point development blueprint focusing on academic excellence, ICT strengthening, enhanced student welfare, quality assurance, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and improved infrastructural management.
He announced plans for a Vice-Chancellor's scholarship scheme, expansion of the work-study programme, upgrading of staff quarters, reopening of closed access roads, and renewed collaboration with host communities to rebuild trust.
Prof. Offiong appealed for cooperation from staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders, stating that the new administration would be firm but fair. He emphasized his commitment to restoring the university's dignity and ensuring that UNICAL "is no longer in the news for the wrong reasons."
The inauguration was attended by top government officials, academics, traditional leaders, and members of the university community, all of whom expressed optimism that the new leadership would usher in a more disciplined and progressive era for the institution.
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