Governor Otu Commends UNICROSS Vice Chancellor for Visionary Leadership

The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has lauded the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, for her proactive and visionary leadership that continues to reposition the institution for global relevance.

Governor Otu gave the commendation on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, when the Vice Chancellor led members of the University Management and a delegation from Zhejiang College, China, on a courtesy visit to his office.
The visit preceded the formal signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between UNICROSS and Zhejiang College to promote educational collaboration, research, and staff and student exchange programmes.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, the Governor praised Prof. Bassey for successfully establishing the international partnership and steering UNICROSS toward stability and growth despite initial challenges.
He said: "When you took over, there were challenges. But through proactive leadership, you restored stability and progress. I am proud of what you have accomplished."

The Deputy Governor recalled his contribution to the university’s evolution, noting that when he was a member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, he sponsored the bill that changed the institution’s name from Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) to University of Cross River State (UNICROSS).
He said: "The dream then was to expand the university's mandate. Today, we are experiencing the realization of that vision through international collaborations that will greatly benefit both the university and the state. We also look forward to the commencement of the Faculty of Medicine and the Law Programme at UNICROSS."

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Francisca Bassey emphasized that the collaboration with Zhejiang College aligns with the Governor's commitment to making UNICROSS a globally competitive institution.
She said: "This partnership reflects His Excellency's visionary leadership, which continues to inspire renewed purpose and energy in our tertiary institutions. From infrastructural development to staff welfare and academic reform, the Governor's passion for advancing education is both evident and commendable."

Tracing the university’s history, Prof. Bassey recalled that UNICROSS began operations in September 2002 with four campuses and six faculties. Today, it boasts three campuses, eleven faculties, and a thriving student population of over 26,000. She described the new partnership as “a major milestone” that will foster joint research, staff and student exchanges, curriculum development, and exposure to China’s advanced education models.

Earlier, the delegation from Zhejiang College, led by its President, Prof. Li Li, was received at a welcome ceremony at the Vice Chancellor’s Conference Room. All members of the University's Management team joined the Vice Chancellor in receiving the delegation. Also in attendance were representatives of Skyrun International, led by Mr. Zhai Jie, Managing Director of Jiangsu Soho Skyrun.

The highlight of the visit was the formal signing of the MOA between the two institutions, held at Hogis Royale, State Housing Estate, Calabar. Prof. Li Li expressed delight at the partnership, describing it as “mutually beneficial and a catalyst for academic innovation and cultural exchange.”

UNICROSS’s Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Hannah Etta, described the agreement as a “new chapter in international academic cooperation” that will strengthen educational ties between Nigeria and China.

Dignitaries at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh (represented by Mr. Okpa Akpet, Special Adviser on Finance and Business, Office of the Secretary to the State Government), Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. (Mrs.) Abigail Orok Duke, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Linus Obogo, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Justice, Barrister Anthony Effiom, as well as members of the UNICROSS Governing Council led by the Chairman of Council, Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, members of the University's Senate, Directors as well as staff and students.

The ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances and an exchange of gift items symbolizing friendship and mutual cooperation between both institutions.

UNICROSS Media Team congratulates Prof. Francisca Bassey and the entire university community for this laudable achievement.
The development reaffirms the Vice Chancellor's commitment to sustaining meaningful partnerships that will elevate UNICROSS to higher international prominence.

- UNICROSS Media Team