Governor Otu Commissions State-of-the-Art Gymnasium in UNICROSS

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.