By Abasi Ita
The newly installed 12th Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Offiong Offiong, has pledged to eradicate admission racketeering and all forms of fraudulent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) mobilization in the institution.
Speaking during his investiture on Monday, Prof. Offiong affirmed that his administration will pursue innovation, excellence, and institutional growth while restoring integrity to university processes.
He said the new leadership is focused on mobilizing the collective strength of the university community to build a future anchored on transparency, academic rigor, and societal development.
“With commitment and teamwork, we will not only achieve greatness but also position this university as a beacon of hope and progress,” he stated.
He invited staff, students, and stakeholders to join in repositioning UNICAL, stressing that the next chapter of the institution’s history must reflect integrity and renewed purpose.
Prof. Offiong declared that his administration will no longer tolerate indiscipline, noting that the Central Admissions Committee will be reactivated immediately and will operate strictly in line with JAMB guidelines.
He outlined plans to transform the university into a centre of robust intellectual engagement and a hub for science, technology, research, and innovation.
According to him, UNICAL’s reputation has suffered in recent years due to recurrent negative publicity, but the institution is now set for a positive turnaround.
“For too long, the university has been in the news for the wrong reasons. That ends now,” he said.
“No student or staff should feel ashamed to identify with UNICAL. This transformation is our collective responsibility, and we welcome contributions from people of goodwill to help rebuild this great institution.”
He encouraged students to pursue academic excellence, assuring them of a supportive environment that will help them maximize their potential.
Prof. Offiong reaffirmed that he will lead as a servant leader, guided by integrity, transparency, and active engagement with all segments of the university.
“Over the next five years, we will dismantle the systems that enable extortion and other abuses. It will not be business as usual. There will be no sacred cows. Anyone who challenges our resolve will face the appropriate consequences,” he warned.