The Lumine News

Tag: #Unical

  • No Amount Of Blackmail Will Change Akpagu’s Legacies – Unical Staff

    No Amount Of Blackmail Will Change Akpagu’s Legacies – Unical Staff

     

    Some staff of the University of Calabar, Unical have raised alarm that some disgruntled elements who felt they didn’t benefit enough from the administration of the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Zana Akpagu are sponsoring smear campaign against him.

    Speaking on the condition of anonymity, they warned those behind the blackmail to desist from it and repent adding that their campaign won’t change the fact that Akpagu was and still remain the best Vice Chancellor of the University since its inception.

    One of them, a former Director in the university said that, “what is happening in Unical is very shameful. It is shameful in the sense that some cabal in the University, most of whom Prof. Akpagu gave name in the university, in a bit to show the current leadership loyalty have resorted to sponsoring smear campaign against him on social media.

    “Yesterday, I stumbled on one where they even claimed the University was given COVID-19 funds but was stolen under his administration. The FG announced resumption of school when Akpagu had almost left. And besides, when did they give the money when we were on strike throughout the peak of the pandemic? Even when we called off the strike, school didn’t resume immediately”.

    He added that “to succeed in pulling Akpagu down, they should go and undo all the faculties and departments he created, break all the gigantic buildings he built, destroy the roads he rehabilitated, make the University insecure. They should just do away with everything he did in Unical because it’s only then they can succeed”.

    Another, a Professor in the school of medical sciences who also didn’t want his name mentioned for fear of victimization said that fighting Akpagu is like fighting the wind because his performances will remain very tall in the history book of the University.

    According to him, “let me tell you, what is happening in Unical today cannot happen in the West or North. The other day I saw that they setup committee to investigate the employment done by Akpagu. What a shame. I was in Nasarawa State for an assignment when I saw one big man with 74 employment letters for his people. Most of those people didn’t even apply for jobs. We’ve not heard noise like we’re hearing in Unical.

    “I’m not a Cross Riverian but I know that Akpagu did everything within his power to employ qualified Cross River indigenes in Unical. It wasn’t like that before. Now, you setup a commitee with a predetermined agenda to sack all the people he has employed because you feel he didn’t support you to become Vice Chancellor. Are you doing him or the innocent people you want to render jobless?

    “Even if Akpagu was a devil, being the first alumnus to become VC, he deserves better. He deserves some respect. I’m not saying Akpagu is a saint but who is that saint that wants to cast the first stone? The current VC has made history as the first woman just like Akpagu did as the first alumnus, what we expect is that she should complement the efforts of her predecessor, where she see loopholes, correct and not try to wipe out the memories of him because she doesn’t know who will come after her “.

    Another who simply introduced himself as Dr. Effiom said that “when I came here, many people tried to poison my mind that the VC was fighting Akwa Ibom people but I later saw that that wasn’t the case. He employed me even when we have never met before. And if you check what Zana has done, you’ll struggle to justify why some people think they should bring him down by all means. He made some mistakes which is normal as human but what do they stand to benefit from all these? Cross River people should learn from the North. They like fighting themselves too much.

    “I know he was a tough guy but to achieve what he did, he needed to be tough. I saw one funny writeup about him increasing acceptance fee or running a no fee, no exams policy. These things are makebelief stories to misinform the public. No Vice Chancellor, no matter how powerful can take these decisions single handedly. These are Senate decisions and the University Senate compromised of intellectuals, Professors who don’t look at any body’s face to talk.

    “Another funny issue I hear them talk about is that he didn’t implement promotion arrears. I don’t know where they get these kinds of stories from but the truth is that, there’s no Senate in Unical history that has promoted more people to professorial rank like the one under Zana.

    “Also, remember that the federal government had more influence on salary payment under Zana than any other administration before him. When the government was paying incomplete salaries, people said it was Zana. If there were issues with promotion arrears, then it was with government not him. Now there’s IPPIS, would you blame the current VC over some people that are being short payed?

    “My appeal is for those looking for favour from the new administration to look for other means of doing that. Distracting the new VC or poisoning her mind against her former boss whom she served under as Deputy is not doing anybody any good. It’s just too early. If these things are not properly managed, don’t forget that Zana still enjoys strong support in the university. If his supporters start talking, the University not Zana will be the biggest victim “.

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

    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

    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. Joseph Asor And The University Of Calabar Vice Chancellorship Race

    Prof. Joseph Asor And The University Of Calabar Vice Chancellorship Race

    By Admin

    The Vice-Chancellor is the Chief Executive and Academic head of the University. He is in-charge of the daily running of the University and promoter of the founding vision of the Universatie scholarium. He is light bearer and chief advocate of the educational mission of the university.

    His office serve as the nerve centre of activities in areas of administration, finance, protocol, external relations. He also coordinates all the various internal organs of theUniversity. He oversee the day-to-day administration of the university and see that the goals of the university are met. He is responsible to the Governing Council for the management of the human, monetary and material resources of the university.

    He exercise general superintendence over the University and is responsible to Council for maintaining and promoting the efficiency and good order of the University. It is his duty to see that the provisions of the law, the Statutes, the Ordinances and the Regulations of the University are observed, and he may exercise such powers as may be necessary or expedient for that purpose. He must therefore be competent at all times to advise Council on any matter affecting the policy, finance and administration of the University.

    By virtue of his office, a member of Council, Chairman of Senate, Chairman of the Congregation, Member of Colleges/Faculties and any other authority of the University set up by Statute and of any Board or Committee appointed by any of those bodies.

    The success of his job will depend on his ability to lead, motivate and inspire administrative associates, academic and non-academic staff as well as students and all other stakeholders to work toward the central purpose of the University to advance learning and enhance talent.

    WHY WE NEED PROF. JOSEPH ASOR

    Name: Prof. Joseph Asor

    Department: Zoology and Environmental Biology

    Rank: Professor

    Origin: Professor Joseph Asor was born on the 19th of June 1963 in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria.

    Prof Joseph Asor is full of capacity and has the zeal to govern University of Calabar. He has served the University for 29 years out of which he served 24 years as a Ph.D holder and over 11 years as full-fledged Professor. He grew in service to the rank of a professor in public service. Within these period, he has held series of leadership positions in and outside the University.

    POSITIONS HELD IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR

    1. Dean Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, 2016 -2018: Professor Asor served as the pioneer Dean Faculty of Biological Sciences. He served meritoriously from 2016 to 2018.

    2. Dean Faculty of Science, University of Calabar, 2014 -2016: Prior to the creation of Faculty of Biological Sciences, Professor Asor served as the Dean Faculty of Science 2014 -2016. Then Faculty of Science was a combination of the present Faculty of Physical Sciences and Biological Sciences.

    3. Dean Student Affairs Division University of Calabar, 2006 – 2011: In 2006 – 2011, Professor Asor served as the Dean, Student Affairs Division of the University of Calabar. He is known as the students friendly Dean of Student Affairs of the University of Calabar.

    4. Head of Department
    Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar 2013 – 2014.

    5. Academic Adviser
    Departmental Academic Adviser, University of Calabar 1997 – 1998.

    6. Examination Officer
    Departmental Examination Officer, University of Calabar 1997 – 1998.

    7. Time Table Officer
    Departmental Time Table Officer, University of Calabar 1996 -1998.

    8. Member Faculty Graduate Committee
    Member Faculty Graduate Committee, University of Calabar 2003 – 2006.

    9. Chairman
    Chairman, Calabar University Electoral Commission. University of Calabar, 2006 – 2011.

    10. Chairman
    Chairman, Student’s Welfare Board, University of Calabar, 2006 – 2011.

    11. Chairman
    Chairman, Faculty Board of Science, University of Calabar, 2014 -2016.

    12. Chairman
    Chairman, Faculty Board of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, 2016 to Date.

    13. Chairman
    Chairman, Faculty of Biological Sciences Appointments and Promotion Committee, 2016 -2018.

    14. Chairman
    Chairman, Faculty of Science Appointments and Promotion Committee, 2014 -2016.

    15. Chairman
    Chairman, Departmental Graduate Studies Committee, 2003- 2006.

    16. Member, Management Committee
    Member, Management Committee of University of Calabar, 2006 – 2011.

    17. Board member, Graduate School Board
    Board member, Graduate School Board, University of Calabar, 2014 – 2018.

    18. Member Committee of Deans
    Member Committee of Deans, University of Calabar, 2006 – 2011 & 2014 – 2018.

    19. Senate Member
    Member, University of Calabar Senate, 2006 – Date

    20. Member Sport Council
    Member, University of Calabar sport Council

    POSITIONS HELD OUTSIDE UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR

    Professor Joseph Asor also held different leadership positions outside the University of Calabar. He served excellently as a man full of capacity.

    1. Rector
    From 1999 – 2002, Professor Joseph Asor served as the Rector Ibrahim Babangida College of Agriculture, Ovonum – Obubra, Cross River State (Now Cross River State University of Technology, Obubra Campus) 1999 -2002.

    2. Member, Governing Council
    Cross River University of Technology, Calabar, 2001 – 2003.

    3.Member, Governing Council
    Cross River State College of Education, 2010 – 2014.

    4. Board Member Governing Board
    Cross River State Community and Social Development Agency, Calabar, 2008 – 2014.

    5. Member, Governing Council
    Ibrahim Babangida College of Agriculture, Ovonum – Obubra, Cross River State 1999 -2002.

    6. Member/Chairman Accreditation panels
    Professor Joseph Asor Member/Chairman Accreditation panels to over 12 Nigerian Universities.

    7. Member
    Member, implementation committee for the establishment of Cross River State University of Technology.

    8. Member
    Member, CRM University Project implementation Committee.

    9. Board Member
    Board member, Cross River State Community and Social Development agency, 2008 to Date.

    Professor Joseph Asor has unbeatable academic and administrative credentials required to occupy the exalted office of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar. He has the best understanding of the dynamics of Student/Lecturer relationship that will reawaken research and boost learning.

    He also has great character, personality and is morally stable. He has the mandate and capacity to transform University of Calabar into an arena for research and scientific discoveries.

     

  • The Era Of Lost Of Accreditation In UNICAL Will Soon Be Over As The Man With NUC Wand And Acumen Is About To Be Enthroned

    The Era Of Lost Of Accreditation In UNICAL Will Soon Be Over As The Man With NUC Wand And Acumen Is About To Be Enthroned

    By Admin

    Below is Prof Joe Asor’s ACTIVITIES WITH THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITIES COMMISSION (NUC)

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Sokoto State University, Sokoto 22nd-25th November, 2017

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Federal University, Dutse-Ma, Katsina State 26th-28th November, 2017

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to
    Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa
    State 18th-21stMarch, 2018

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State 29th-31st October, 2018

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Mountain Top University, Makoji Oba, km12, Lago Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State, 1st-3rd November, 2018

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Crescent University, Abeokuta Ogun State, 4th-6thNovember, 2018

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to SouthWestern University Okun Owa, Ogun State, 7th-9th November, 2018

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Ondo State University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, 2nd-4th May, 2019

     Chairman, NUC Accreditation Panel to University of Ibadan, Oyo State, 6th-8th October, 2019

     Chairman, NUC Accreditation to University of Ilorin, Kwara State, 9th-11th October, 2019

     Chairman, NUC Accreditation Panel to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi. 3rd–6th November, 2019

     Member, NUC Accreditation Panel to Adeleke University Ede, Osun State, 21st-23rd November, 2019

    Comr. (Hon) Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    JOE ASOR COALITION OF COMRADES (JACC) [email protected] 09078405798

    N/B: This opinion is solely that of Ogar Emmanuel Oko and does not represent TheLumineNews or its staff

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

    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.

  • Meet Prof. Offiong E. Offiong Vying For The Position Of Vice Chancellor, University Of Calabar

    Meet Prof. Offiong E. Offiong Vying For The Position Of Vice Chancellor, University Of Calabar

    By Admin

    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.

  • I Will Encourage Collaborative Research And Linkages To Enhance Visibility And Ranking Of Unical In Line With Global Best Practices – Ita

    I Will Encourage Collaborative Research And Linkages To Enhance Visibility And Ranking Of Unical In Line With Global Best Practices – Ita

    By Elijah Ugani

    A front line contender of the position of the Vice Chancellorship of the University of Calabar, Prof. Benedict Iserom Ita has stated that if appointed as the Vice Chancellor of the institution, he will encourage collaborative researches and form linkages that will enhance visibility and ranking of the institution in line with global best practices.

    Ita disclosed this to TheLumineNews on a telephone chat today, Monday 15th, June 2020.

    His words “It is my desire to offer public service to my alma mater. I will encourage collaborative researches and create linkages that will enhance visibility and ranking of the University of Calabar in line with global best practices.

    “As part of my plans streamlined in the agenda of my administration if appointed by the President and Commander In Chief of the federal republic of Nigeria, Mr. Muhammadu Buhari through the governing council, I will strengthen staff and students relationship, ensure timely promotion and implementation of staff, create alternative means of income generation by leveraging on the Unical Bright Paint Industry to boost the Internally Generated Revenue IGR.

    “The university does not exist in isolation, it is therefore my utmost intention to strengthen unions – management relationship with the view to create an effective and conducive learning environment that will be devoid of ranchor and acrimony. I will sustain the already ongoing resource, facilities and structural development. I will attract funds for research and sponsorship as well as training and retraining of staff towards positioning the university to respond to the 21st century demands.

    Prof. Benedict Iserom Ita was born on 10th April, 1967 in Aningeje, Akamkpa, Cross River State. He began his education at the Presbyterian Primary School, Akim Qua Town, Calabar, and obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1979.

    He was admitted into the Immaculate Conception Seminary, Mfamosing, Akamkpa and successfully obtained his GCE in 1984.

    Prof. Ita proceeded to the prestigious University of Calabar, Calabar where he obtained B. Sc. (1989), M. Sc. (1994) and Ph.D (2000) respectively in Physical Chemistry.

    Professor Benedict I. Ita’s ability to distinguish himself among his contemporaries stems from an uncanny dedication to his calling and profession. By dint of hardwork, he grew step by step and matured into leadership. Professor Benedict Ita began his working career with the Federal University of Technology, Yola as a Junior Research Fellow during his NYSC from 1989 to 1990. He joined the University of Calabar as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, from where he rose through the ranks to the prestigious rank of a professor in 2010.

    As an academic/educationist of excellence and a man of integrity, his professional and public life have helped nurture his students at both undergraduate and post-graduate programmes to a logical refinement of their careers and studies.

    Indeed, Professor Benedict Ita’s researches and teaching experiences as a scientist have carved a niche for him in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry. Nevertheless, Professor Benedict Ita’s works stands out comparatively with a mixed grill of attributes including but not limited to:

    1) Synthesis, characterization and application of nanomaterials in biodiesel production, trapping of pollutants, decolorization of water by adsorption, cement matrix, catalysis, biomedical research, etc

    2) Corrosion and Corrosion inhibitions of metals.

    3) Solutions of Relativistic (Klein-Gordon and Dirac) equations and non-Relativistic (Schrodinger) equation using various methods.

    4) Solutions of linear and nonlinear differential equations using various methods like Homotopy Analysis, Adomian Decomposition, Variational Iteration, Differential Transform, Elzaki Transform methods, etc.

    Professor Benedict Ita has served the University in many diverse capacities which includes but not limited to the following:
    1). Secretary, Strategic Planning Committee, Faculty of Science, Unical.

    2). Head of Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Unical.

    3). Chairman, Central Time Table Committee, Unical.

    4). Chairman, Committee of Deans, Unical.

    5). Chairman, Senate Vetting Committee, Unical.

    6). Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Unical.

    7). Acting Vice Chancellor, Unical, etc.

     

  • University Of Calabar Advertises For The Position Of Vice Chancellor

    University Of Calabar Advertises For The Position Of Vice Chancellor

     

    By Elijah Ugani – Calabar

    The Governing Council of the University of Calabar has declared vacant the position of the Vice Chancellor in the University with effect from 1st December, 2020.

    The declaration followed the expiration of the tenure of the current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu whose tenure in office is to elapsed on the 30th of November, 2020.

    Prof. Zana Akpagu is the 10th Vice Chancellor of the institution and the first alumunus to head the institution.

    A release sighted by theluminenews and signed by the Registrar of the institution, Amb. Gabriel O. Egbe indicates that interested academics shall submit 30 copies of their applications with detailed curriculum vitae, duly signed and dated by the candidates with the most recent passports size photograph attached to each.

    The release reads in part “The Governing Council of the University of Calabar has declared a vacancy for the position of Vice Chancellor in the University with effect from 1st December 2020.

    “In accordance with the provisions of the university (miscellaneous) Decree No 11 of 1993 (as amended), the council has commenced the process of filling the vacancy.

    “The University of Calabar came into being on the strength of Decree No 93 of 1979, starting academic work in 1975, the university has the object of encouraging the advancement of learning and holding out to all persons without distinction to race, creed, sex, political or religious affiliation.

    “The candidates for the post of Vice Chancellor is expected to; 1. be an acclaimed scholar who is a professor of very high repute and must have published in academic journals that are both national and international reputes. 2. Wide range of academic experience. 3. be on the rank of professor for at least 9 years by 1st Dec, 2020. 4. must not be more than 63 years of age by 1st Dec, 2020”

    The release also indicated that the successful candidate is hold office for a period of 5 years.