By Abasi Ita
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) and Opay Digital Services Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up a modern Cybersecurity Lab on campus, a move expected to strengthen digital security and expand hands-on training opportunities for students.
The agreement was formalised at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room, where the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, and the Registrar, Dr Chukwuka Icha, signed on behalf of the university. Opay’s Director of Partnerships, Ikponwosa Odiase, and Corporate Responsibility Manager, Itoro Ekanem, signed for the company.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Offiong said the partnership aligns with his administration’s commitment to building industry-backed collaborations that enhance academic excellence and institutional resilience. He described the proposed Cybersecurity Lab as a key investment that will protect institutional data, strengthen digital infrastructure and provide students with practical exposure to cybersecurity operations.
According to him, the facility will position UNICAL as a leading training centre for cybersecurity professionals in Nigeria, equipping students with relevant skills for careers in the fast-growing security-tech sector.
In his remarks, Odiase said Opay’s decision to partner with UNICAL is driven by its corporate social responsibility focus on empowering young people with digital-security competencies. He noted that as a company operating a secure financial platform, Opay is committed to equipping students with the tools needed to combat cyber fraud and emerging digital threats.
The ceremony was witnessed by senior officials of the university, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (R, L & C), Prof. Peter Okafor; the University Librarian, Prof. Aniebiet Ntui; Director of the Legal Unit, Barr. Jonas Abuo; Public Relations Officer, Mr Effiong Eyo; and Opay’s Associate Director, Merchant Acquiring Education, Olumide Olubobokun.
The MoU marks a significant step in UNICAL’s digital transformation agenda and reinforces a growing partnership with Opay aimed at promoting innovation, digital literacy and improved cybersecurity capacity within the institution.