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Tag: #Offiong E. Offiong

  • UNICAL VC Hits Ground Running with Bold Reforms, Infrastructure Revival, Digital Innovation in First Week

    UNICAL VC Hits Ground Running with Bold Reforms, Infrastructure Revival, Digital Innovation in First Week

     

    Barely a week after assuming office, the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has demonstrated a remarkable sense of urgency, direction, and purposeful leadership, signaling a new era for the institution.

    From reorganizing administrative culture to reviving abandoned projects and securing major digital partnerships, the new VC has begun laying the foundation for a more secure, efficient, and technologically driven University.

    Setting the tone for culture of discipline and responsible communication within days of resuming duty, Prof. Offiong convened a strategic meeting with his immediate administrative staff, including the Central Administration and the Information/Public Relations Unit.

    The session set a new tone for leadership under his watch, one defined by discipline, punctuality, dedication, and professional excellence to duty.

    He emphasized that those who work directly with the Vice-Chancellor carry a special responsibility in shaping the institution’s (UNICAL’s) internal and external image.

    To foster a culture of accountability and motivation, he announced that his “Thank You Engagements”,a system of recognizing hard work would be introduced periodically and tied to measurable performance.

    He further underscored the importance of consistent, accurate communication through weekly or monthly bulletins to keep the University community properly informed.

    The Vice-Chancellor’s proactive start has already sparked enthusiasm across campus, with staff and students expressing satisfaction and optimism about the direction his leadership is taking.

    In another decisive move within his first week, Prof. Offiong led the University into a landmark partnership with Opay Digital Services Limited to establish a modern Cybersecurity Laboratory on campus.

    The MoU, signed at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room, marks a major step in strengthening digital security, expanding hands-on learning opportunities, and positioning UNICAL as a regional hub for cybersecurity training.

    Prof. Offiong affirmed that the initiative aligns seamlessly with his commitment to innovation, industry-driven learning, and digital resilience. The lab is expected to empower students with critical cybersecurity skills while enhancing the University’s capacity to safeguard institutional data.

    The development has been widely welcomed by the university community, with many students expressing excitement about the new learning opportunities the partnership will unlock.

    Also within the week and In a display of hands-on governance, Prof. Offiong embarked on an extensive inspection tour of key infrastructure projects across the campus demonstrating his resolve to tackle long-standing challenges head-on.

    The 12th Vice Chancellor of the institution, inspected the ongoing perimeter fencing project, describing it as vital to campus safety. While commending existing interventions, he emphasized the need for stronger, more coordinated security infrastructure.

    At the site of the 1,200-bed PP Hostel and other housing initiatives, he reaffirmed that expanding student accommodation is a top priority. The move many described as closing the Gap in Student Accommodation.

    The former National Vice President (South) of Academic Staff Union of Universities ( ASUU), stressed the importance of keeping students in secure, University-managed spaces, especially in a time of heightened security concerns nationwide.

    A notable highlight of the tour was his
    passion towards reviving the institution’s abandoned and stalled projects not excluding the main library project, which has been dormant for years.

    Prof. Offiong expressed confidence in its revival, noting that restoring the library to full functionality is essential to the academic excellence UNICAL strives for.

    He also revealed that his administration is cataloguing all abandoned projects across the institution, with plans to engage intervention agencies such as the NDDC and the Needs Assessment Unit to facilitate their completion.

    For transparency and to ensure that projects meet required standards, the VC announced that management will frequently conduct on-site inspections instead of relying solely on written reports.

    He stressed that while contractors have shown effort, the new administration will not allow complacency until every targeted project is fully delivered.

    Also, in a significant national engagement during his first week in office, the Vice-Chancellor hosted the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who was on campus for personal engagements, including the defence of his doctoral thesis.

    Prof. Offiong applauded the lawmaker’s outstanding contributions to national development and legislative excellence, describing him as an inspiring figure whose accomplishments continue to motivate students across the University.

    The Deputy Speaker’s decision to return to UNICAL for his PhD, despite having studied globally, was highlighted as a testament to the quality and credibility of the institution.

    The Deputy Speaker, in turn, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the University for the rigorous mentorship and academic support that shaped his doctoral journey.

    He noted that UNICAL remains a strong foundation for intellectual growth, national service, and policy influence, emphasizing that the knowledge acquired in the institution is already contributing meaningfully to legislative work at the national level.

    His visit, coming so early into the VC’s administration, was widely regarded as a boost to the University’s reputation and a reaffirmation of its national relevance.

    Adding to the positive momentum of his first week, the Vice-Chancellor also ordered the reopening of the long-closed gates leading to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital am other access points that had remained shut for nearly a year.

    The directive was met with jubilation across campus, as staff and students celebrated the restoration of free movement, improved accessibility, and a renewed sense of normalcy. The decision was praised as a compassionate, student-centred leadership action that reflects the VC’s commitment to welfare, security, and institutional harmony.

    Staff and students who witnessed the early flurry of activities expressed heartfelt appreciation, describing the VC’s pace as refreshing, inspiring, and indicative of a leader who is ready to move UNICAL forward.

    This is indeed, a promising start to a transformative tenure because In just one week, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong has demonstrated clarity of vision, strong administrative energy, and a commitment to excellence that has ignited renewed hope within the University community.

    With strengthened leadership structures, revived infrastructural projects, and forward-looking digital partnerships, the University of Calabar is clearly entering a new chapter, one marked by action, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of staff and students.

    Agare Onoriode Israel
    Information/Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar University for his doctoral thesis defence.

  • UNICAL VC Applauds Deputy Speaker’s National Impact, Legislative Excellence

    UNICAL VC Applauds Deputy Speaker’s National Impact, Legislative Excellence

     

    … as Deputy Speaker assures UNICAL of strong Collaboration, improve Government Presence

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong has commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, His Excellency, Rt..Hon. Benjamin Kalu for his remarkable contributions to national development, community advancement, and legislative excellence.

    Prof. Offiong gave the commendation at the Vice Chancellor’s conference room during an engagement with the Deputy Speaker, who was in the institution for some personal business including his Doctoral thesis defence.

    He expressed profound satisfaction with the Deputy Speaker’s achievements in the National Assembly, noting that his record of service continues to inspire students across the University.

    “We are indeed very happy and pleased with your landmark achievements in the House of Representatives and your efforts in advancing communities across the country not just your immediate constituency but Nigeria at large,” the VC said.

    “Your contributions in the National Assembly are attributes we use to showcase to our students: that you are trained not only for academic excellence but to serve our country.”

    The Varsity administrator reiterated that UNICAL looks forward to welcoming the Deputy Speaker at the next convocation ceremony.

    “It is an honour for me to congratulate you and to have the privilege of robing you during the conferment of your Doctor of Philosophy. You obtained your LL.B and Master of Laws here, and this shows your confidence in the University of Calabar. You are not just an ambassador. You are a very proud ambassador of this great institution.”

    In his remarks, the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu expressed gratitude for the institution’s support throughout his academic journey noting that he was trained and supervised by best hands..

    “It is a thing of delight to be here. I am here for my PhD thesis defence, and I sincerely thank you for the support and encouragement,” he said. “The external examiner was thorough, and the Postgraduate School, my supervisor, and the lecturers did a remarkable job. I am proud of what I have achieved. It took sacrifice, discipline, diligence, and consistency.”

    He praised the quality of education at UNICAL, stating that the University remains a strong foundation for excellence.

    “In the past we were equipped to face the world, and I know it is still the same today. One thing the University of Calabar will always do is hand you the keys to opportunities. It opens doors, but it is up to you to decide whether to walk in or remain outside.”

    He underlined that he chose to remain engaged with the University and its values while emphasizing the originality and importance of his doctoral research adding that the practical value of his research is already being recognized nationally.

    “As for me, I didn’t want to stay out. I wanted to be involved and here I am. Today, I am confidently displaying what this citadel of learning impacted in me, showing the world that homegrown professionals have a lot to offer. I have studied around the world, but I chose home for my PhD because home is where the heart is, and whatever touches home touches the heart.”

    According to the lawmaker , ” My Ph.D thesis examines the gaps in legislation around counter-terrorism: the ethical concerns, human rights gaps, the challenges, and how emerging democracies can learn from these realities,” he explained.

    He described the University of Calabar as an impactful platform maintaining that education is not just about theory but that it involves practicals as well.

    According to him, the knowledge produced here is being used in Parliament today.

    This is even as he expressed his firm commitment to supporting the administration, noting that the University’s influence extends beyond academics into national policy and governance.

    “Vice Chancellor sir, you are worthy to sit here as Vice-Chancellor, and we will support you to succeed. We supported your predecessor, and we will support you as well. Alma mater is a place we must be proud of, and alumni should rally around their University.

     

    Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar

  • UNICAL VC Meets with His Staff, Charges Them to Uphold Excellence, Promote University’s Image

    UNICAL VC Meets with His Staff, Charges Them to Uphold Excellence, Promote University’s Image

     

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong has met with members of his immediate staff which include the central administration and the Information Unit, charging them to demonstrate dedication, professionalism, and a renewed commitment to strengthening the University’s public image.

    Addressing his staff, Prof. Offiong Efanga emphasized that those who work closely with him play a central role in how the institution is perceived both internally and externally stressing that there is need for staff to imbibe the culture of discipline, punctuality, efficiency, and a collective resolve to move the University forward.

    While describing himself as “a very simple fellow,” he noted that such simplicity can only be appreciated when staff show genuine dedication to their duties.

    He further stated that the Vice-Chancellor’s “Thank You engagements”, an act of recognition and appreciation, will be periodic and tied to demonstrable progress and hard work.

    The Varsity Administrator urged staff to avoid circulating any information that could portray the University negatively.

    This is even as he reaffirmed the need for consistent and accurate communication, especially through weekly or monthly Bulletin from the Information/Public Relations Unit of the Institution.

    Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor’s staff, the director of Administration, Vice Chancellor’s office Dr. Citizen Ekpo and Institution Public Relations Officer, Mr. Effiong Eyo expressed their commitment to supporting his administration and projecting the University of Calabar in a positive and responsible light.

    The meeting also highlighted the importance of continuous staff development, with the Vice Chancellor announcing that regular training sessions would be introduced to enhance competence and efficiency among the Vice Chancellor’s direct support personnel.

    Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar

  • Just In: UNICAL Council Approves The Appointment Of Prof Offiong E. Offiong As The Vice Chancellor

    Just In: UNICAL Council Approves The Appointment Of Prof Offiong E. Offiong As The Vice Chancellor

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Governing Council of the University of Calabar, has approved the appointment of Prof Offiong Effanga Offiong as the Vice Chancellor designate.

    Prof Offiong E. Offiong, a former Cross River State Commissioner for Education, has been confirmed as the 12th Vice Chancellor of University of Calabar.

    Offiong was confirmed by the 14th Governing Council led by DIG Udom Ekpoudom.

  • UNICAL VC-ship: Prof. Offoing Makes Strongest Push As Selection Process Commences.

    By Admin

    Indications are high that the Council Meeting heralding the selection of the next Vice Chancellor for the University of Calabar will take place in a few days and a front line contender for the position, Prof. Offiong Effanga Offing has released more facts to prove his argument as “the best, tested, experienced, exposed and a qualified candidate for the job”

    In his seventeen page Curriculum Vitae, supported by a synopsis of his mission statement and vision for the university, as well as testimonials of his work history over the years are among the deliberate packaged materials in the hands of the Selection Council members which has made the strongest impression of his candidacy.

    A source close to council maintained that “Council members are committed to ensuring the selection process and the final outcome would be the best for the university which indeed is what Prof. Offiong represents”.

    Interacting with newsmen recently in Calabar over his aspiration to be the next Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong had noted that if given the opportunity he was poised to make UNICAL one of the foremost Institutions of higher learning with global recognition because he is a true scholar.

    His words, “A Vice-Chancellor should provide academic and a purpose driven leadership that us anchored on research, teaching, and community service. This will be of utmost priority under my leadership”, Offiong said.

    Adding, “I will ensure the enabling environment for research and learning”

    When asked how he intends to curb or eradicate social vices such as cultism and systemic corruption/malpractices, Prof. Offiong said, “Counselling and welfare are very important in addition to adequate security infrastructure. We will ensure Counseling is given proper attention and also institutionalize the committee management system at the University”

    He explained that the committee system will be all encompassing within the University system as well give members of the university community a sense of belonging, involvement, and commitment to decisions taken.
    “Before a decision comes to the University Senate, it must have benefited from a robust and quality assessment from the departments concerned”

    Prof. Offiong who is contending for the same position with no fewer than ten other professors, is an astute Academic/ Researcher with over 70 Research articles, publications in peer-review journals cited in high impact databases.

    He had his B.Sc. (Hon) degree in Chemistry 1984 from the University of Calabar where he graduated with Second Class (Upper Division).

    In 1990 he obtained his Ph.D in Coordination/Inorganic Chemistry from the same department, University of Calabar supported by DAAD in Germany.

    He has so far successfully supervised 7 Masters and 13 Ph.D. theses in the University. He had been Postgraduate/Undergraduate External Examiner in many Universities across the country and has served the University of Calabar in several capacities including; Sub-Dean, Faculty of Science, Dean, Faculty of Science, Dean of Students’ Affairs, Member, Governing Council of the University of Calabar (2000-2004), Chairman and Zonal Coordinator ASUU, National Vice President ASUU among others.

    “Between 2007 and 2015, he served as Commissioner for Education in Cross River State.”

  • If Track Records And Competence Is Anything To Go By, UNICAL Governing Council Need Not Search Further With Prof. Offiong E. Offiong

    By Admin

    Professor Offiong E. Offiong is a Professor of Inorganic Chemistry who is purpose driven to build on the legacies of past Vice Chancellors of the University of Calabar.

    Prof. Offiong is poised to strengthen areas that may not have been given priority and adequate attention in the past.

    University of Calabar, like some other varsities have other businesses which implies that the institution does not only teach Entrepreneurship education in theory, but the students have the opportunity to practice what they learn.

    The University of Calabar currently produce UNICAL table water as a means of income generation. However, there are several ventures that have remained untapped and unexplored within the university system despite the available market opportunities.

    Apart from the university’s core mandate of Academics, UNICAL houses several investments which can be liken to a jewel in her crown.

    The University of Calabar is however in dare need of that leader who sees the multi-sectoral opportunities and has the the goodwill to explore and harness these opportunities to boost the internally generated revenue IGR to change the narratives of over-dependence on subvention from the federal government.

    Prof Offiong is an Entrepreneur per excellent, and has prior to his ambition to serve the university in the position of Vice Chancellor, laid down plans to revamp UNICAL businesses.

    It is imperative to note that this erudite Professor is integrity and humility personified, he is a man of his words, a trail blazer, a pathfinder, a social engineer and mobilizer of very high repute.

    Prof. Offiong has all it takes to build, expand, sustain and reinvigorates university of Calabar ventures.

    If competence, experience, track records and merit is anything to go by in the circumstance of the Vice Chancellorship appointment, the Governing Council of the University does not need to search further, as the quintessential Prof. Offiong’s intimidating CV and achievements which are visible and speaks volume and  has eased the work for the Council.

    Prof. Offiong is vested with the capacity, zeal, content, managerial, influential and managerial skills to consolidate on the virtues and gains of the past Vice Chancellor to move the University of Calabar to the next level.

    We can only pray the Governing Council saddled with the onerous responsibility of appointing a Vice Chancellor, finds a trust worthy servant-leader, Prof. Offiong E. Offiong, the substantive 11th Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar.

  • Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, A Candidate For Vice Chancellorship Of The University Of Calabar: Synopsis Of His Vision And Mission Statement

    By Elijah Ugani

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong was born in Calabar
    on November 6, 1963. In 1974, and completed his Primary Education with a Distinction.

    He then attended Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar, where he sat and passed with Division–One WASC (1979). Prof. Offiong holds a B.Sc (Hon) degree in Chemistry
    (1984) from University of Calabar where he graduated with
    Second Class ( Upper Division).

    In 1990 he obtained his
    Ph.D in Coordination/Inorganic Chemistry
    from the same
    department, University of Calabar, supported by DAAD in Germany with a scholarship to conduct laboratory bench work in Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany.

    Prof Offiong also holds a Certificate in Equipment Maintenance (1991) from Bristol Polytechnic, Bristol, UK.

    After his successful mandatory National Service (NYSC) in
    the University of Ibadan, Prof Offiong started his lecturing career in 1985 as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Chemistry, University of Calabar and rose to the rank of Professor in Coordination/Inorganic Chemistry in 2002.

    Offiong has successfully supervised 7 Masters and 13 Ph.D theses in the University. One of the PhD theses won the National Universities Commission’s Award of “Best Thesis in
    Physical Sciences in Nigerian Universities in 2012”.

    As a true scholar, he has been a mentor to many budding Academics especially in the field of Inorganic Chemistry. Many of his former Graduate Students are now Professors and others high ranking Academics in Nigerian Universities and abroad.
    One of them is the current Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Calabar.

    Prof Offiong is an astute Academic/ Researcher with over 70 Research articles/publications in Peer-review journals
    cited in high impact databases. He had been
    Postgraduate/Undergraduate External Examiner in many Universities across the country including; UNIUYO, MOUA, BSU, UNIABUJA, UNN and presently in RSU.

    He has also served the University system in several capacities
    including; Sub-Dean , Faculty of Science, Dean Faculty of Science, Dean of Students’ Affairs, Member, Governing
    Council of the University of Calabar (2000 – 2004), Member, UCISS Governing Borad, Member, Central Admission Committee, Member, Centre for Educational Services, Member, University of Calabar Reformation and Implementation Committee, Member, Committee in the development of School of Pharmacy, Unical.
    Chairman and Zonal Coordinator ASUU, National Vice President ASUU among others.

    A celebrated Academic whose spirit of assistance spans
    through different human endeavours, Prof. Offiong also shared his passion and acumen in public service.

    Between 2007 and 2015, he served as Commissioner for Education, Cross River State. During this period, the Schools across the
    18 LGAs witnessed massive infrastructural transformation, the first of its kind. The performance of CRS Students in WASCE rose from 22nd position to 7th and 6th in 2012 and
    2013 respectively.

    His contributions to the establishment of
    the prestigious Institute of Technology and Management (ITM), Ugep and the reopening of previously closed down
    State-owned College of Education in Akamkpa speak volume to elucidate his sterling qualities and passion for education and scholarship.

    He was the Chairman of All States Commissioner of Education in Nigeria from 2009 to 2015.

    Prof. Offiong served in the Presidential Task Force on Education with the mandate of implementing a
    transformation agenda in Nigeria education system (2011 – 2014).

    His love for academic and human resource development knows no bounds; as a Commissioner, Prof. Offiong still rendered services free as an Academic by teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses and successfully supervised ten (10) Graduate theses during this period despite the fact that he was on Leave of Absence.

    Prof. Offiong has won several international Fellowships/
    Awards through which he visited many laboratories/
    Institutions and Universities in Italy, France, Germany,
    Russia, United States of America, United Kingdom, India, United Arab Emirates, Finland among others.

    As part of his community and humanitarian services, he is the immediate Past President of the Boys Brigade Nigeria (BBN), CRS Council (2013 to 2019). He is currently the Chairman of Education committee in the Obong of Calabar.

    Executive Forum. Prof. Offiong is married to his heart–throb Dr. (Mrs.) Ame l. Offiong; the marriage is blessed with three beautiful children; Efanga, Asa and Eme.

    Prof. Offiong has clearly demonstrated profound and purposeful leadership as an administrator, academic and above all a role model for young people in his thirty-five years as a Lecturer.

    He has also served the state in the following capacities;
    Consultant/Resource person, CREPA/FEPA on World Bank sponsored Environmental Action Plan for CRS.
    Consultant/Resource person to the Min. of Agric & Water Resources, CRS.
    Member & (Chairman, Sub-Committee on staffing) local accreditation to CRUTECH.
    Member, Education sub-committee, CRS transition committee.
    Chairman, Education & Social services cluster, CRS, comprising 11 MADs.
    Leader, CRS delegation on a study Tour to Educational Institutions in India.
    Leader, CRS delegation o a 5-day learning journey to University of Jyvaskyla, Finland.
    Member, CRS delegation on sister state relationship visit to the state of Maryland, USA.
    Leader, CRS delegation on a Study Tour of Highbury College, Portsmouth, UK.

    At the national level, Offiong also served as;
    Associate Consultant in Environmental Chemistry to Shell Producing Nig Limited (West)
    Consultant, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) on Gas emission project.
    Member, NUC committee on Development of Basic Minimum Academic Standards for post graduate programme in Nigerian Universities.
    Member, Presidential Task Team on Education.
    Member, Implementation on the Presidential Task Team report on Education.
    Member, Fed Govt of Nigeria delegation to Highbury College, Portsmouth.
    Member, Fed Govt of Nigeria delegation to the all Ministerial 2013 World Bank/International Monetary Fund Spring meeting with E-9 countries at Washington DC, USA.

    With these experiences, he would make a good Vice Chancellor if entrusted with the responsibility.

    He has been a Professor of inorganic/coordination Chemistry in the University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria for 18 years.

    He is an accomplished academician, astute administrator, intrepid goal-getter and undaunted activist who shares the vision of the founding fathers of the University of Calabar.

    Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong vision statement for the university in the coming five years is to transform it into a leading university in Nigeria and in the sub-Saharan region, in teaching, learning, research and community service. This he intends to accomplish through hard work, setting timelines, with continuous/rigorous evaluations for every task assigned to Staff and Students, to be backup with incentives as well as training and retraining of Staff.

    Professor Offiong understands that to produce globally competitive and skilled graduates and make University of Calabar a “Center of Excellence”, a lot of things will have to be done differently.

    He will attract grants and established functional linkages with other institutions in Nigeria and abroad.

    Professor Offiong intends to put in place a sustainable plan to boost the internally generated revenue(IGR)

    He will revolutionize the delivery and quality of Education/Services by expanding and integrating Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
    into all the services/ operations of the University.

    As a former Union Leader , he will work to sustain industrial harmony and strive to enhance Staff/Students welfare, motivation and productivity.

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong is astute unionist of no mean repute. He has been consistently involved in the processes that led to the midwifing of both students unions during his undergraduate programme. As a student activist, he championed most of the students yearnings that relived the plight of students.

    As a member of the Academic Staff Union of University, University of Calabar Branch ASSU-UCB, he was elected Vice Chairman at age 30 and was reelect for second term of four years following an excellent performance.

    During which time, all the unions in the University collaborated and midwived the University of Calabar International Secondary School.

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong was elected Chairman, Academic Staff Union of University, University of Calabar Branch ASUU-UCB, in the year 2000 and was reelected in 2002 to serve another term of two years. During this period, ASUU-UCB made very positive impacts in the management of the university and in resolving all Labour related crisis.

    The distinguished Prof. Offiong E. Offiong also served as JAC Chairman, comprising of (ASUU, SSANU & NASU), University of Calabar branch. During his tenure as Chairman, he established a welfare scheme for the branch to carter for members welfare needs such as weddings, child dedication and bereavement etc.

    During this period, he introduced “computer loan scheme” which afforded members own their personal computers and became computer literate.

    Prof. Offiong negotiated and signed the second Centre for Educational Services CES Agreement of the university and got all the entitlements owed members including handsome allowances for Lecturers involved in Consultancy Services/Part-Time lecturing.

    As Chairman of ASSU-UCB, he was also the Zonal Coordinator, ASUU Calabar Zone, comprising of UNICAL, UNIUYO, IMSU, FUTO, UNIPORT and RSUSzt and as well NDU and CRUTECH where he midwived their charters into ASUU.

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong is the first Cross Riverian to be elected National Vice-President of ASUU. At which time he organized the first leadership training workshop for Chairman and Secretary of branches in ASUU.

    Juxtaposing Prof. Offiong E. Offiong experience in the formation and service in the various unions he served previously, he very equipped with the technical, influential, managerial and developmental skills and prowess to reposition staff welfare and create job satisfaction as Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar.

    In line with the new direction in Universities world wide to be ‘Visible and globally Competitive’. Professor Offiong will strengthen the capacity of Academic Staff to have more publications in high impact journals cited in Scopus/Scimago, Thompson Reuters etc. abstract and citation database. As an exemplary academic leader, he is on the Scopus abstract and citation database, where the world university rankings are hinged on, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong has contributed 35 publications, 1017 citations and an H-index of 17. Surely, as Vice-Chancellor he would know how to create the enabling environment for many young/upcoming scholars to strive and surpassed this.

    He will be focused also in improving the ranking of the University of Calabar through facilitating local and international conference attendance.

    He will consolidate on the achievements/efforts of the past administration of the University towards the expansion of new faculties/Centres and infrastructural development. New centres of excellence where the University has a competitive advantage will be established.

    Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong has traversed the ranks of public administration and is therefore no administrative neophyte. He has been Dean of Students’ Affairs, where he is been exposed to all the intrigues of students. He is a one-time dean of one of the largest faculties in the university; now splits into the present faculties of Physical and Biological Sciences. He was a member of the Governing Council of Unical and Commissioner for Education for 8 years.

    As Commissioner for Education, the schools in the 18 local government area of the state witnessed massive infrastructural transformation, first of its kind. The performance of students in WASCE rose from 22nd position to 7th and 6th in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

    He also midwived the establishment of the prestigious Institute of Technology and Management (ITM), Ugep and the reopening of previously shutdown State-owned College of Education (COE), Akamkpa.

    He intends to institutionalize Effective management and governance in the University of Calabar.

    If given the chance to become the 11th Vice Chancellor of the university of Calabar, he promises to work hard to reposition academics, administration and consultancy in the university of Calabar.

    The above vision and mission statements are achievable because Prof. Offiong E. Offiong has the credentials, his experience, strength of character, good health, fear of God and a clear idea of what it will take to transform the University of Calabar, his Alma Mater. He is endowed with influential, managerial and developmental prowess to change the narratives of leadership in the University of Calabar.

     

  • Prof. Offiong E. Offiong: An Enigmatic Progenitor Of Union Formation And Service Delivery

    By Elijah Ugani – Calabar

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong is an astute unionist of no mean repute. He has been consistently involved in the processes that led to the midwifing of both students unions during his undergraduate programme as well as other unions in the University of Calabar where he serves. As a student activist, he championed most of the students yearnings that relived the plight of students during his undergraduate programme.

    As a member of the Academic Staff Union of University, University of Calabar Branch ASSU-UCB, he was elected Vice Chairman at age 30 and was reelect for a second term of four years following an excellent performance.

    During which time, all the unions in the University collaborated and midwived the University of Calabar International Secondary School UCISS.

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong was elected Chairman, Academic Staff Union of University, University of Calabar Branch ASUU-UCB, in the year 2000 and was reelected in 2002 to serve another term of two years. During this period, ASUU-UCB made very positive impacts in the management of the university and in resolving all Labour related crisis.

    The distinguished Prof. Offiong E. Offiong also served as JAC Chairman, comprising of (ASUU, SSANU & NASU), University of Calabar branch. During his tenure as Chairman, he established a welfare scheme for the branch to carter for members welfare needs such as weddings, child dedication and bereavement etc.

    During this period, he introduced “computer loan scheme” which afforded members the opportunity to own their personal computers and became computer literate.

    Prof. Offiong negotiated and signed the second Centre for Educational Services CES Agreement of the university and got all the entitlements owed members including handsome allowances for Lecturers involved in Consultancy Services/Part-Time lecturing.

    As Chairman of ASSU-UCB, he was also the Zonal Coordinator, ASUU Calabar Zone, comprising of UNICAL, UNIUYO, IMSU, FUTO, UNIPORT and RSUST and as well NDU and CRUTECH where he midwived their charters into ASUU.

    Prof. Offiong E. Offiong is the first Cross Riverian to be elected National Vice-President of ASUU. At which time he organized the first leadership training workshop for Chairman and Secretary of branches in ASUU.

    Juxtaposing Prof. Offiong E. Offiong experience in the formation and service in the various unions he served previously, he very equipped with the technical, influential, managerial and developmental skills and prowess to reposition staff welfare and create job satisfaction as Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar.