The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has announced that the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, will be conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Honoris Causa as part of its grand 50th-anniversary celebrations slated for March 23, 2025.
This prestigious honor is in recognition of Governor Otu’s distinguished leadership, unwavering commitment to societal development, and contributions to the progress of both Cross River State and the University of Calabar.
A Historic Recognition for an Esteemed Alumnus
The announcement was made by UNICAL’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, who led the university’s 50th-anniversary committee on a courtesy visit to the governor. She highlighted a significant milestone in the university’s history:
Governor Bassey Otu is the first indigenous alumnus of UNICAL to serve as the Governor of Cross River State.
In addition to the honorary doctorate, Governor Otu was officially named a University Ambassador, an acknowledgment of his remarkable contributions to education, governance, and social transformation.
Governor Otu, a proud alumnus of the University of Calabar’s Class of 1984, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. Reflecting on the institution’s remarkable transformation over the decades, he remarked:
“To think that UNICAL will be celebrating 50 years in March nearly took me aback. I left the school in 1984, and when I see the number of years that have passed, I realize how much the university has grown. It is truly worth celebrating.”
Strengthening Ties Between UNICAL and Cross River State
Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the University of Calabar, pledging continuous support to enhance its academic excellence, research capacity, and infrastructural development.
“As a government, I don’t think there’s anything you call on us to do that we won’t show up for. We will always make sure that we have the best university,” he assured.
A Star-Studded 50th Anniversary Celebration
The golden jubilee celebrations of the University of Calabar will feature a series of high-profile events, bringing together distinguished personalities from academia, politics, and business.
Keynote Lecture (March 20, 2025) – To be delivered by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Fundraising & Awards Night – Recognizing outstanding contributors to the university’s success.
Honorary Degree Conferment (March 23, 2025) – The climax of the celebrations, where Governor Otu and other eminent figures will be honored.
Other Notable Awardees
Alongside Governor Bassey Otu, other prominent personalities to receive honorary doctorate degrees from UNICAL include:
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio
Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu
Supreme Court Justice, Emmanuel Agim
Governor Otu’s Leadership: A Model for Progress
Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Obi commended Governor Otu’s visionary leadership, describing his administration as one that is bold, transformative, and dedicated to repositioning Cross River State for sustainable growth and prosperity.
“Your Excellency, you are the first indigenous governor of Cross River State who is an alumnus of this university, and we are incredibly proud of you. This is just your second year in office, yet your impact is already visible. We are confident that by the time you are done, the state will be completely transformed.”
The honorary doctorate represents a symbol of excellence and service, celebrating Governor Otu’s remarkable journey from an alumnus of UNICAL to a distinguished public servant, leader, and advocate for development.
Social Media Reactions & Public Excitement
The announcement has sparked excitement on social media platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn, with Cross River State residents, UNICAL alumni, and well-wishers applauding the university’s recognition of Governor Otu’s contributions to society.
Hashtags like #UNICALAt50, #GovOtuHonored, and #GoldenJubileeUNICAL are trending as users share congratulatory messages and reflect on UNICAL’s legacy of academic excellence.
University students and alumni have flooded social media with nostalgic throwbacks, celebrating UNICAL’s 50-year journey and recognizing its role in shaping leaders like Governor Otu.
Political analysts and academics have hailed the event as a moment of pride, emphasizing the critical role of education in nation-building and leadership development.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Excellence and Progress
As the University of Calabar prepares for its historic 50th-anniversary celebrations, the conferment of an honorary doctorate on Governor Bassey Otu is a testament to the institution’s commitment to recognizing leaders who drive positive change in society.
With UNICAL poised to celebrate its golden jubilee, the event will serve as a rallying point for academia, governance, and business leaders, reaffirming the university’s place as a hub for excellence and innovation.
Congratulations to Governor Bassey Otu and all honorees as UNICAL marks 50 years of academic distinction!
