Ukorebi Esien | April 2, 2026
CALABAR –The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has announced that a total of 10,820 students will graduate at its forthcoming 38th Convocation Ceremony, with 52 students earning First Class honours.
The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Offiong Effangha Offiong, disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing marking the commencement of activities for the convocation.
According to him, the graduating students comprise 152 diploma holders, 9,173 first degree graduates, and 1,495 postgraduate students.
A breakdown of the first degree results shows that, in addition to the 52 First Class graduates, 2,390 students obtained Second Class Upper Division, 5,819 earned Second Class Lower Division, 666 finished with Third Class, while 246 graduated with Pass degrees.
Professor Offiong described the convocation as a significant milestone, noting that it is the first to be under his leadership as the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the university.
“This convocation is particularly special to me. It marks a new phase in the life of this institution, and we are committed to sustaining excellence, innovation and integrity,” he said.
He outlined a lineup of activities for the week-long ceremony, beginning with an interdenominational service on April 7, followed by a research fair and exhibition aimed at showcasing innovations and attracting investors.
The convocation lecture, scheduled for April 9, will be delivered by Major General Garba Ajodidi Wahab (Rtd), who is expected to speak on the theme: “Redefining National Security in an Era of Endemic Insecurity: The Role of Tertiary Institutions.”
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the main convocation events will include the award of diplomas, first degrees, and master’s degrees on April 10, while 463 PhD graduates will be conferred on April 11, alongside the award of honorary degrees and the launch of the university’s endowment fund.
He added that the ceremony will conclude with a thanksgiving service on April 12.
Professor Offiong also used the opportunity to reiterate his administration’s commitment to reforms within the institution, particularly in addressing issues related to admission irregularities, employment processes, and certificate fraud.
He emphasized that the university has adopted stricter measures to ensure transparency, warning against practices such as over-admission and bribery.
“We are determined to restore the integrity of our systems. Admission and employment processes will strictly follow due procedures, and anyone found engaging in fraudulent practices will be sanctioned,” he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor called on the media to continue supporting the institution by providing accurate and balanced reportage, as the university works to reposition itself for greater global relevance.
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