Calabar– The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has officially launched its 50th-anniversary celebrations, an event set to commemorate five decades of academic excellence and contributions to humanity. Addressing the press during the flag-off ceremony on Tuesday, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Banku Obi, unveiled a series of activities and projects aimed at celebrating the institution’s journey since its establishment in 1975 NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
With the theme, “50 Years of Impactful Knowledge and Service to Humanity,” the Vice Chancellor expressed the varsity’s gratitude for its evolution from a small campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to a globally recognized academic powerhouse. Founded under Nigeria’s National Higher Education expansion program, the University has grown from an initial student population of 406 and 156 staff members to over 40,000 students and 8,000 staff members.
Prof. Obi highlighted the institution’s expansion from three faculties at inception—Arts, Science, and Social Sciences—to its current structure, which boasts 21 academic faculties, 123 departments, a College of Medical Sciences, and a College of Postgraduate Studies. The Faculties of Computing and Mass Communication are set to begin operations in the 2024/2025 academic year.
Reflecting on the University’s growth, Prof. Obi paid tribute to past leaders and staff, including the late Prof. Emmanuel Ayandele, the pioneer Vice Chancellor, and other foundational figures who laid the groundwork for its success. She also commended alumni and stakeholders for their continued support in advancing the University’s vision.
Activities and Legacy Projects
Prof. Obi announced a lineup of activities to run from now until March 2025. These include:
– A colloquium in January 2025.
– Alumni book presentation.
– Anniversary reunion and homecoming.
– An anniversary lecture and exhibition.
– An awards and fundraising dinner in March 2025.
Part of the celebrations will include naming University streets, faculties, hostels, and other buildings after past Vice Chancellors and distinguished alumni.
The Vice Chancellor also outlined key projects tied to the anniversary celebration, including:
1. Development of sports and recreational facilities to support UNICAL’s hosting of the NUGA 2026 Games.
2. Commencement of construction of a modern Senate building.
3. Construction of a convocation arena for academic ceremonies.
Call for Partnership
Obi emphasized the role of stakeholders, including alumni and the press, in promoting the “UNICAL Brand” and ensuring the success of the anniversary celebration. “We invite you to be fully involved in all of these and help us reach out to the world in every step of the way,” she stated.
Obi further reaffirmed the commitment to excellence, innovation and impact as the University of Calabar gears up to mark this historic milestone.
