The Management of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has announced the appointment of new Directors, Heads of Department, and Desk Officers across various academic and administrative units of the institution.
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Students from the Faculties of Biological Sciences and Engineering of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) have emerged as the first runner-up at an innovation competition organized by the Cross River State Ministry of Environment to commemorate World Environment Day 2026.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has approved the Professional Women Accountants in Nigeria (PROWAN), Cross River State Chapter’s proposed Children’s Day outreach programme for pupils of the UNICROSS Staff School.
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Professor Francisca Bassey, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), undertook a strategic engagement visit to Cyprus International University (CIU) in April 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen UNICROSS’s international partnerships and expand opportunities for academic and research collaboration.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has continued to demonstrate purposeful leadership and commitment to institutional transformation with the commencement of presentations of two-year strategic action plans by Deans of Faculties, Directors of Directorates and Units, as well as Heads of Department before the University Management.
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University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) held a solemn assembly at its Calabar campus on Friday, May 8, 2026, to thank God for the preservation of lives and honour three students and a staff member who lost their lives in a tragic vehicle accident that occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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History was recorded at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) on Friday April 23, 2026, as the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, was formally inducted as a Fellow of the Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering (NATE).
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The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to advance research and student-focused initiatives that promote safer road use.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has announced the promotion of nine academic staff members across various faculties, following appraisal exercises that were conducted by External Assessors.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has urged staff and students of the institution to open their hearts to God, describing the call as being in their best interests and in the overall interest of the University.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Bassey has presented a comprehensive report of the university’s activities and progress for 2025 to the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey. During the presentation, Prof. Bassey highlighted the university’s achievements, including the approval and commencement of minimum wage payments for staff, and the conduct of a National Universities Commission, NUC, accreditation exercise for 18 newly introduced academic programmes. The VC said, “We have recorded significant progress since I assumed office, including the construction of an entrepreneurship workshop, en-suite offices, and laboratories.” She also reported improvements in academic administration, including the timely submission of students’ results by lecturers. The Vice Chancellor noted that the university had implemented its first increase in school fees since 2009, citing rising costs of goods and services nationwide. Prof Bassey added, “This is a complete university. We have to adequately fund it to prepare our children for the future and for the competitive world ahead of us.” Prof Bassey appealed to the state government to assume responsibility for staff salaries, recruit additional staff, and provide improved funding to ease the university’s financial burden. She also requested for the perimeter fencing of campuses and construction of access roads. In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Education, Senator Odey hailed Professor Bassey and the university management for the progress, assuring them of the ministry’s continued support. Odey said, “You have started very well. The increase in school fees is a right step. Keep your eyes on the ball.” The commissioner promised to lead a delegation to UNICROSS to assess developments and challenges, expressing the confidence that programmes assessed by NUC would receive full accreditation. The visit was attended by UNICROSS management team and internal Governing Council members, who were received by the commissioner and ministry officials. The university has made significant strides, including acquiring a broadcasting licence and establishing e-libraries across campuses. However, challenges persist, including inadequate funding and security concerns. Professor Bassey assured that the university is working to address issues affecting students’ academic records, and has uploaded over 50 million outstanding results.
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The Honourable Commissioner of Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, briefly stepped on the treadmill at the gymnasium
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The University of Cross River State has witnessed significant advancements in academic and infrastructural development, courtesy of the Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu. On Monday, February 23, 2026, the Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, commissioned an ultra-modern fitness centre, specifically designed for the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education. In addition to the commissioning ceremony, the Governor conducted an inspection of key university facilities, including the Central Store and several academic departments, such as the Department of Visual Arts Technology. This inspection aimed to assess ongoing developments and infrastructure under the current administration. The state-of-the-art gymnasium is one of the numerous landmark infrastructural projects accomplished under the leadership of Professor Francisca Bassey as Vice Chancellor. Addressing the Vice Chancellor and members of the university's management, the Honourable Commissioner stated that the visit was intended to commend the university's leadership and encourage sustained high performance by the Vice Chancellor. He emphasized that the Ministry and the government of Governor Otu remain committed to supporting institutions that demonstrate innovation, accountability, and measurable progress. Describing the commissioning of the gymnasium as his first official project inauguration at the institution since assuming office, the Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the university's growing internal production capacity and prudent resource utilization. In her remarks, Professor Bassey described the visit as a strong endorsement of the university's development trajectory. She explained that the newly commissioned gymnasium was constructed within a cafeteria building that had been abandoned for over four decades. While noting that the development reflects her administration's commitment to revitalizing infrastructure despite limited funding, she emphasized that the facility will enhance student development, vocational training, and overall campus well-being, while aligning with global standards in tertiary education. The Vice Chancellor also commended the Acting Head of the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, Dr. David Eyam, alongside staff and students, for their contributions to the project's successful completion. She further highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between the university and the Ministry of Education in driving institutional advancement. Professor Stella Maris-Okey, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic); Professor Thomas Ojikpong, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration); Dr. Catherine Osai, Registrar; Dr. Victoria Iyishu, Librarian; Mr. Wilson Aniyom, Bursar; Deans of Faculties; Directors of Units; Heads of Departments as well as staff and several students, joined the Vice Chancellor in witnessing the commissioning ceremony. Dr. Moses Agboreyo, Mrs. Theresa Inaku, Mr. Cyril Itam and Mr. Asuquo Etim Amaku, all Directors in the Ministry of Education, accompanied the Honourable Commissioner to the ceremony.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, on Tuesday March 3, 2026, conducted an inspection tour of ongoing capital projects at the Calabar Campus as part of Management’s commitment to quality assurance and timely project delivery.
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The Vice Chancellor University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, recently, led a delegation of The University Council members and Management to present the latest National Award-winning inventors from the institution and their spectacular innovations to the State Governor and Visitor to the University, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. The event took place at the Government House, where the Laurel Winners, Prof. Babson Ajibade and Engr. Dr. Joseph Ukpata and their innovative brands – Prof. Babson Ajibade’s BMV-6 Medical Ventilator and Dr. Joseph Ukpata’s Automatic Gari Fryer – were presented to the Governor, a pitch video of the BMV-6 Medical Ventilator explained to him and the its global uniqueness highlighted. Prof. Bassey also presented and explained the Automatic Gari Fryer to the Visitor and informed him that the ventilator is scheduled to represent Cross River State and Nigeria in an international Exhibition in London. The Governor who was pleasantly surprised to know that the BMV-6 Medical Machine came from a staff of UNICROSS, applauded the development saying, it is a huge thing. He was moved to request for a proposal on the London exhibition and promised to fund the trip. The Governor was also quite elated about the Automatic Gari Fryer and indicated interest to acquire some units of the product for an agricultural project in the State. He declared that Cross River State must be given priority to buy units of the Gari Fryer and asserted, in the overwhelming excitement; “when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.” Governor Otu felt certain that the two great innovations presented to him by the UNICROSS VC were an indication that UNICROSS is now prospering as a result of good leadership, exemplified by the sitting, amiable Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey. The VC did not fail as she profoundly appreciated His Excellency's magnanimity and attentiveness to UNICROSS. Prof. Bassey was accompanied on the mission by Prof. Mrs. Akon Joshua (Member, UNICROSS Governing Council and former Acting Vice Chancellor), Mrs. Catherine Ajibike (another Governing Council Member), Prof. Mrs. Stella-Maris Okey (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic) and Mr. Idim Effiom Ekenem, the Acting Registrar. The event was rounded off with photographs
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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has celebrated her appointment as substantive Vice Chancellor of the University by appreciating God's mercies on her. She appreciated Him at a thanksgiving service held on Sunday 21st September 2025, at Shalom Church, Jonathan Bypass, Calabar. Prof. Bassey, a Professor of Organic Chemistry, was appointed as substantive Vice Chancellor on July 17, 2025, after serving in an Acting capacity for six months. Her appointment by the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, was widely applauded, especially in academic circles. She has lived up to expectations since then and continues to attract goodwill from staff and students of the university. Speaking during the thanksgiving service, the Vice Chancellor gave glory to God for all her accomplishments and stated that it was necessary for her to invite all her well-wishers to join her in thanking Him and in praying for His continuous blessings. She said: "I have always drawn succour from God. After God, it is my father and my mother. They gave me the foundation. The Bible says 'train up a child in the way He should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it'. My parents invested in my education and sent me to very good schools. It takes sacrifice to do so." She wished that they were alive to witness her progress and prayed for God's blessings on their souls. The Vice Chancellor disclosed that she grew up in a family that is full of love and praised all her siblings for contributing to lay a solid foundation for her attainments. Prof. Bassey urged Lecturers to always act with integrity and responsibility. She said: "When people's children come into your hands, beware of what you do to them." She emphasized that she has never mistreated anyone's child and will never mistreat anyone's child. The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu and his wife, Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for finding her worthy of appointment as Vice Chancellor. She also thanked the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, the Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Chairman, Governing Council of UNICROSS, Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, and others who played key roles in her appointment. While delivering a sermon at the thanksgiving service, Apostle Frank Umoh of Shalom Church, challenged leaders to use their influence to uplift others and to prepare for life after service. He said: "You won't remain in your office forever. When you are about to round off in your office, be careful to pick a good successor. Keep sentiments aside. Your successor is your pension benefits." The celebration continued with a dinner at Hogis Royale on Bishop Moynagh Avenue, where the Vice Chancellor's family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers toasted her academic achievements and leadership. In her remarks at the Dinner, Chairman of the event and former Commissioner of Information, Pastor (Barrister) Rosemary Archibong, described the Vice Chancellor as "a rare breed of success that God has given to us." She added that: "What we are seeing today is a product of hard work, favour and prayers. God has answered those prayers and we are here to celebrate." Before joining UNICROSS, Prof. Francisca Bassey spent her academic career at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), holding various leadership positions. Since assuming office at UNICROSS, she has been credited with driving notable reforms and infrastructural development. The thanksgiving celebration was graced by a host of distinguished personalities, including the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who was represented by the Head of Service, Barrister Orok Okon, and his wife, Her Excellency Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, represented by Dr. Comfort Oko, Senior Special Adviser, Administration, in the Office of the Wife of the Governor. Also in attendance was the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, represented by Dr. Chris Ojikpong, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor. Other dignitaries included Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff to the Governor; members of the Federal House of Representatives, including Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey (representing Calabar South/Akpabuyo/Bakassi Constituency) and Hon. Michael Etaba (representing Obubra/Etung Constituency); as well as Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, former member of the House of Representatives. The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem; Prof. Itam Hogan, Muri Munene of the Efut Nation and Paramount Ruler of Calabar South Local Government Area; and Queen Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu, wife of the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, were also present to celebrate with the Vice Chancellor. Equally present were former and current Vice Chancellors of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), including Prof. James Ipoke, Prof. Zana Akpagu (Immediate Past Vice Chancellor), and Prof. Florence Obi (current Vice Chancellor); as well as members of the Cross River State House of Assembly; Hon. Duro Meseko, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC); and former First Lady of Cross River State, Her Excellency Mrs. Florence Dan Archibong. Several Commissioners and Permanent Secretaries also graced the occasion. In addition, Chairmen of Local Government Areas were in attendance, including Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong (Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area) and Hon. Patrick Okon Archibong (Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Area); as well as the Accountant General of Cross River State, Mrs. Glory Effiong; Gab Umoden, owner of Access Group of Schools; numerous university professors; and all members of the UNICROSS Governing Council led by Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo. The event also drew political leaders, members of the academic community from both UNICROSS and UNICAL, Dr. Lawrence Umoh (elder brother of the Vice Chancellor) and their siblings, as well as the Vice Chancellor’s children, who all joined in celebrating the colourful and memorable occasion. We heartily congratulate her and wish her continued success in all her endeavours. — UNICROSS Media Team
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Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu had approved the appointment of Professor Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, UNICROSS. “The appointment takes with immediate effect and follows the recommendations of the University’s Governing Council,” read a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, who also served as Vice Chancellor of the institution in the past. Professor Bassey was initially appointed in acting capacity by Governor Otu who is the Visitor to the institution, after Professor Austin Angba was suspended over alleged misconduct which he challenged in Court, won, and later chose to resign. Professor Owan-Enoh described Professor Bassey as, “a seasoned academic and administrator of distinction, brings to the role a wealth of experience, integrity and a deep commitment to advancing higher education.” He further says, “Her emergence reflects the administration’s abiding faith in meritocracy and the empowerment of capable Cross Riverians to drive institutional growth and excellence.” Assuring her of the Visitors support, the statement further read; “Governor Otu congratulates Professor Bassey on this well-deserved elevation and charges her to provide visionary leadership that will reposition University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), as a hub of academic excellence and innovation.” CrossRiverWatch
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The Pro-Chancellor of University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) and Chairman of the University's Governing Council, Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, yesterday led members of the University's 6th Governing Council on a courtesy visit to Senator Stephen Odey, Cross River State Commissioner of Education. The courtesy visit preceded yesterday's first meeting of the 6th Governing Council after it got inaugurated last month. It was meant to introduce members of the Governing Council to the Commissioner and to reinforce a synergy between the Management of UNICROSS and the Ministry of Education. The Ministry plays a supervisory role in UNICROSS. In his opening remarks at the meeting, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, thanked the Commissioner of Education for always representing the interest of UNICROSS. He emphasized the importance of regular communication between the Governing Council and the Ministry of Education and added that UNICROSS is a project that deserves everyone's support and dedication. The Pro-Chancellor further assured the Commissioner that members of the Governing Council will work with him to improve the image and global ranking of UNICROSS. On her part, the Acting Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Prof. Francisca Bassey, also assured the Commissioner of Education that she will always work in synergy with him. She cited improved adherence to the policy of "no school fees no exams", prompt release of results, payment of minimum wage to staff of the University and utilization of the previously dormant defunct Heritage Bank Building as some of the strides that UNICROSS has made after she assumed office as Acting Vice Chancellor. She said: "We have made significant strides, including the introduction of immediate result access for students after Computer Based Exams for General Studies courses. This has made results accessible immediately after exams, giving no room for any confusion or alteration. This transparency has been well received." The Acting Vice Chancellor further disclosed plans to improve on facilities that will enhance teaching and learning in the University. She thanked the Commissioner of Education and the State Government for always paying attention to the needs of UNICROSS and promised that the Governing Council, Management, staff and students of UNICROSS will not abuse this goodwill. In his response, the Commissioner of Education thanked members of the Governing Council for the visit and appealed to them to justify their membership of the Council by always offering selfless service to UNICROSS. He charged them to always ensure that results of students get promptly released so that graduating students can promptly proceed on National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) and so that certificates and transcripts will get released without unnecessary delay. He said: "The Visitor to the University, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is deeply committed to enhancing educational standards. He has implemented transformations in the education sector. The Pro-Chancellor is a renowned technocrat. I have confidence in him. I believe that he will justify the trust that the State Governor and Visitor to the University has in him. Let's strive for unity and work collaboratively to enhance UNICROSS in all areas, not just administratively, but also in addressing student-related issues. We need to implement efficient processes that will speed up the issuance of certificates. Students coming from near and far should be able to collect their certificates within two days, following the necessary procedures and document signing. These improvements will position UNICROSS as a leading institution." The Acting Vice Chancellor assured him that UNICROSS is already taking steps to be a leading institution and will soon become a leading institution under her stewardship as Acting Vice Chancellor and under the stewardship of the 6th Governing Council. The visit ended on a note of mutual commitment to enforcing academic integrity, transparency and institutional reform in UNICROSS. All members of the University's 6th Governing Council accompanied the Pro-Chancellor on the visit. Similarly, all members of the University's Management Team accompanied the Acting Vice Chancellor on the visit.
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2026/2027 UTME/DE Admission Screening into University of Cross River State(UNICROSS) commence on May 21st 2026. Click the Button Below to start your processes. UTME/DE Screening
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The Management of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has announced the appointment of new Directors, Heads of Department, and Desk Officers across various academic and administrative units of the institution. The new appointees include: Prof. Emmanuel Uttah as Director of the Directorate of Research; Dr. Anthony Otiko as Desk Officer of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and Director of Career Services; Dr. Emeng Iyeme as Acting Head, Department of Mathematics; Dr. Gertrude Fischer as Acting Head, Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering; Dr. Cassius Ogar as Acting Head, Department of Business Administration; Dr. Jonathan Osang as Acting Head, Department of Physics; Dr. Fidelis Abeng as Acting Head, Department of Chemistry; Dr. Moses Eka as Acting Head, Department of Biochemistry; Dr. Isaac Ubi Essien as Acting Head, Department of Anatomy; Dr. Benedict Idam as Acting Head, Department of Physiology; Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Ekeng as Acting Head, Department of Civil Engineering; and Prof. James Akpama as the pioneer Outcome-Based Education Desk Officer, following the establishment of the newly created Outcome-Based Education Desk. The newly appointed Director of Research and Acting Heads of Department take over from their predecessors, whose tenures in office have come to an end. All the appointments reflect the University's commitment to excellence, competence, and continuity in academic and administrative leadership. Members of the University community have commended the Management for the transparent and merit-based selection process, describing the appointments as a demonstration of its resolve to strengthen institutional governance and enhance service delivery. The Management has also been praised for its visionary leadership, commitment to fairness, and dedication to positioning the University of Cross River State for greater academic excellence and sustainable development. The University community congratulates the appointees and wishes them successful and impactful tenures in their respective offices.
2026-07-06The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, on Friday, July 3, 2026, led the University's Monthly Prayer and Praise Session, offering heartfelt prayers for students, parents, staff and the continued progress of the institution. The prayer gathering, held at the Conference Room of the Vice Chancellor's Office, focused on peace, progress and divine intervention. Central to the session was the Vice Chancellor's fervent prayer for the speedy resolution of the ongoing academic staff strike, as she reaffirmed the University's unwavering commitment to the welfare and future of its students. The Guest Minister, Pastor Ayang Umoren of God Wonders Service, delivered a sermon titled "The Unscripted Life," drawing his text from Proverbs 3:5: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." In his message, Pastor Umoren described the unscripted life as one guided not by human plans but by God's divine purpose. He observed that while human efforts are often limited by error and uncertainty, a life surrendered to God and directed by the Holy Spirit aligns with God's perfect will and attracts His blessings. He encouraged members of the University community to trust God wholeheartedly, remain steadfast in faith and seek Him diligently, affirming that "whom God has blessed, no man can curse." Speaking prophetically about the institution, Pastor Umoren declared that God is favouring and blessing UNICROSS under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey. He cited the University's visible developmental strides, including the recent installation of solar power infrastructure across campus buildings, as evidence of God's continued hand upon the institution. According to him, "If God says that UNICROSS is blessed, believe Him." He further remarked that divine favour adds flavour to a person's life and destiny, and prayed for even greater favour upon the University. A major highlight of the programme was the intercessory prayers led by the Vice Chancellor, who demonstrated deep compassion for students, parents and members of staff in light of the ongoing industrial action. Praying earnestly for a quick resolution of the strike, Prof. Bassey acknowledged the emotional and psychological burden being experienced by students and their families, particularly students whose academic aspirations have been put on hold. She also expressed empathy for members of the academic staff, recognising their legitimate desire for improved working conditions, better remuneration and greater job security. She prayed: "I understand the pains of our children. I understand the pains of parents. Children look forward to graduating with their colleagues and moving into a brighter future. But we also understand that one is not supposed to muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain. Labourers have a right to seek better working conditions, better pay and security for their careers so that they can remain motivated to render quality service while adequately providing for their families. God of heaven, let this matter be resolved in the name of Jesus Christ. We pray for our children as they wait at home; keep them from vices and every form of evil. For their sake and for the sake of our colleagues, let this matter be resolved quickly." She further committed the entire University community into God's hands, praying for divine wisdom and guidance for all parties involved in efforts to resolve the ongoing academic staff strike. She expressed confidence that the negotiations would yield a peaceful, amicable and lasting resolution in the interest of the University and its stakeholders. Her prayers reflected the University's commitment to balancing the legitimate welfare concerns of its staff with its enduring responsibility to safeguard the educational aspirations, safety and future of its students. It would be recalled that three months earlier, the Vice Chancellor led a delegation comprising members of the University's Management and Governing Council on a courtesy visit to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. During the meeting, she drew the Governor's attention to the University's pressing challenges and critical needs and appealed for the State Government's intervention. In response, the Governor assured the delegation of his commitment to addressing the issues comprehensively and providing lasting solutions. Speaking during the prayer meeting, the Vice Chancellor expressed her appreciation to the Governor for fulfilling that commitment by constituting a Technical Committee to Review the Working Environment in UNICROSS. Prof. Bassey described the initiative as a clear demonstration of the Governor's unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the University community. She expressed confidence that the committee's recommendations would provide lasting solutions to the University's challenges and contribute significantly to creating a more conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and administrative work. The Vice Chancellor commended the Governor's goodwill and unwavering commitment to the advancement of UNICROSS and the education sector in Cross River State, describing him as a God-fearing leader whose genuine desire is to improve the lives of the people. She noted that despite prevailing financial constraints, Governor Otu remains committed to transforming the state's educational system and expanding opportunities for its citizens. She prayed that God would continue to grant him wisdom, strength and divine grace as he leads the state. Recognising the financial challenges confronting Cross River State, Prof. Bassey further prayed for the restoration of the state's oil wells by the Presidency to strengthen its revenue base, expressing confidence that increased resources would enable the Governor to realise his developmental vision for the state. She also prayed that God would guide the nation's leaders to make decisions that would enhance the state's economic capacity and accelerate sustainable development. The prayer session was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Thomas Ojikpong; the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Catherine Osai; the University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Iyishu; the Bursar, Mr. Wilson Aniyom; the Director of Academic Planning, Professor Hannah Etta; other principal officers and appointees of the Vice Chancellor; and staff of the Vice Chancellor's Office. The Monthly Prayer and Praise Session continues to provide a platform for spiritual renewal, thanksgiving and collective intercession for the peace, progress and continued advancement of the University.
2026-07-06The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has recorded another significant research milestone as three of its academics emerged successful in the latest Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) National Research Fund (NRF) cycle through separate research projects. Professors Emmanuel Uttah and George Iniodu of the Department of Animal and Environmental Biology were named Principal Investigators on their respective projects while Engr. Professor Joseph Onah Ukpata of the Department of Civil Engineering is Co-Researcher on a project led by a Principal Investigator based in Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai. Prof. George Iniodu, whose project is titled "Innovation in Malaria Control Using Solar-Powered Plant-based Spatial Repellent for Indoor and Outdoor Applications in Rural and Urban Areas," described the grant as an opportunity to contribute to addressing one of Nigeria's most pressing public health challenges through innovative research. He noted that Nigeria accounts for about 27 per cent of the global malaria burden, with nearly the entire population at risk of infection. "My research is of public health concern, so it will benefit everyone. It is addressing one of the most devastating tropical diseases, malaria. Nigeria bears about 27 per cent of the global malaria burden and about 97 per cent of our population is at risk. An innovation that puts a clog in the wheels of effective malaria transmission would bring enormous benefits to Cross River State and Nigeria and can be scaled to benefit humanity, especially across the tropics," he said. According to Prof. Iniodu, the research will not only improve health outcomes but also stimulate economic activities by creating a value chain that positively impacts local economies. Prof. Emmanuel Uttah, who recently succeeded Engr. Prof. Joseph Ukpata as Director of Research and Development at UNICROSS, is also serving as a Principal Investigator. His research project is titled "Development of a Biological Monitoring System for Early Warning of Heavy Metal Toxicity and Carcinogenicity in Nigeria". His emergence as a Principal Investigator reflects his longstanding contributions to parasitology, environmental health and research development. Speaking on the grant, Prof. Joseph Ukpata, who serves as Co-Researcher on a project titled "Development of National Groundwater Risk Assessment Framework for Informed Public Health Policy Towards Ending Recurrent Cholera Outbreaks in Nigeria," said the research is expected to yield significant benefits for Nigeria, particularly for communities that are most vulnerable to recurrent cholera outbreaks. According to him, the project seeks to improve groundwater sanitation and hygiene, thereby drastically reducing the transmission of waterborne diseases and contributing to the elimination of the thousands of cholera cases and deaths recorded annually in the country. He explained that the impact would extend beyond public health by reducing the social stigma often associated with cholera outbreaks, promoting healthier community interactions and fostering peace and social stability. Prof. Ukpata further stated that the economic benefits would be enormous, as lower healthcare costs and reduced absenteeism from schools and workplaces would improve productivity and contribute to national economic growth. He also noted that the research would advance technological development by influencing the design and construction of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, groundwater systems and other innovations capable of strengthening Nigeria's water and sanitation infrastructure. "The direct beneficiaries of this project will be Nigerians, especially those living in cholera hotspots, researchers, intervention agencies and policy makers responsible for environmental health, water resources, sanitation and public health," he said. Speaking on what the award means for the University of Cross River State, Prof. Ukpata said the success would further elevate the institution's standing nationally. "This achievement will bring national visibility and pride to UNICROSS. It will increase the respect the university enjoys among Nigerian universities and further enhance its credibility," he added. Congratulating the researchers, the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Prof. Francisca Bassey, described the teams' success as a remarkable achievement that reflects the quality of research being undertaken at UNICROSS. She urged the beneficiaries to ensure that the TETFund grant translates into practical solutions capable of addressing pressing national challenges and improving the lives of Nigerians. She said: "I assure you of Management's continuous support for research, innovation and staff development, which is one of the reasons we create an enabling workforce for scholars to compete and win national and international research grants." The TETFUND NRF grant supports research projects that address national development challenges, including environmental sustainability, public health, and infrastructure development. The latest TETFund success is another indication that under the visionary leadership of Prof. Francisca Bassey, UNICROSS has continued to strengthen its research culture, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and support academics in attracting competitive grants that address national development priorities. It demonstrates that UNICROSS is not only producing outstanding scholars but also building collaborative research teams capable of delivering innovative solutions to critical health and environmental challenges facing Nigeria.
2026-07-02The Forum of Heads of Department (HODs) of Human Kinetics and Health Education from tertiary institutions across Cross River State paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) on Friday, 26 June 2026, to formally invite the University Management to the maiden Joint Annual Conference of Human Kinetics and Health Education Departments in the state. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Thomas Ojikpong. Speaking on behalf of the Forum, the Head of the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, UNICROSS, Dr. David Eyam, briefed the University Management on the conference, scheduled for 1–2 July 2026 at the University of Calabar, and formally extended an invitation to the Vice Chancellor. He also expressed the Forum's commitment to hosting a future edition of the conference at UNICROSS. Responding on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ojikpong commended the Forum for the initiative and reaffirmed the University's support for the conference. He highlighted the Vice Chancellor's commitment to the advancement of Human Kinetics and Health Education, noting her role in securing the full accreditation of the department and her passion for sports development. He further assured the delegation of the Vice Chancellor's willingness to participate in the conference and pledged the University's continued collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee. Members of the Forum are drawn from the University of Cross River State, University of Calabar, University of Education and Entrepreneurship Akamkpa and Federal College of Education Obudu. They unanimously expressed appreciation to the University Management for the warm reception and support. Also in attendance were the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Catherine Osai; the University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Iyishu; the Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ebri Onen Ebri; as well as representatives of the Local Organizing Committee.
2026-06-29The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the constitution of a Technical Committee to undertake a comprehensive review of the working environment at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), as earlier promised about two months ago to a delegation of Council and management led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey. This is part of his ongoing efforts to further strengthen the institution and enhance its capacity for excellence. The development was announced in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Cross River State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, who disclosed that the committee will be chaired by Prof. Uduak Effiong, a distinguished academic and former Director of Academic Planning as well as former Dean of Students' Affairs of the University. The initiative underscores the State Government's sustained commitment to supporting the growth and transformation of UNICROSS, while consolidating the gains already recorded under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey. The committee is expected to engage relevant stakeholders and assess critical aspects of the University's working environment with a view to making recommendations that will further improve institutional effectiveness, staff welfare, academic productivity, and overall governance. The constitution of the 7-member Technical Committee reflects the administration's determination to position UNICROSS as a leading centre of learning, research, and innovation, capable of meeting contemporary educational demands and contributing meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Cross River State and Nigeria at large. Details of the committee's membership and terms of reference are contained in this official statement.
2026-06-17
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