The University of Calabar has recognized several distinguished Nigerians as part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, bestowing them with the prestigious title of Grand Ambassadors and inducting them into its Hall of Fame.

Among those honored are the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu; and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu. The institution also named them Legacy Faces of the University.

Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Edu expressed gratitude to the university’s management for the recognition, describing it as an incredible honor.

She pledged to uphold the values of the institution and continue to serve as a worthy ambassador. She also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for his support and leadership, assuring Nigerians that his administration’s Renewed Hope agenda would bring lasting improvements to the education sector.

Dr. Edu lauded the university’s Vice Chancellor, the Student Union Government, and her lecturers for their role in shaping her leadership journey. She described UNICAL as the institution that built her leadership foundation and equipped her for public service.

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As part of efforts to support the university’s development, she announced that the 2009 class of the Medical School would contribute N15 million toward the completion and equipping of the new medical center.

She made this pledge on behalf of her classmates, emphasizing their commitment to giving back to the institution that played a crucial role in their professional growth.

Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi reflected on UNICAL’s evolution from its days as a campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to its establishment as an independent institution in 1975. She described the journey as five decades of resilience, impactful knowledge, and dedicated service to humanity.

Professor Obi expressed pride in the university’s distinguished alumni, highlighting the presence of top government officials, including the Senate President, Deputy Speaker, Cross River State Governor, and Deputy Governor, among others.

She also commended Dr. Edu for consistently bringing honor to the university through her achievements in public service.

The 50th-anniversary celebration of UNICAL continues with other events aimed at showcasing the institution’s legacy and contributions to education and national development.

Crediblenewsng.com