UNICAL Alumni Seek Emir of Kano’s Intervention Over Dentistry Crisis
By Inemesit Friday
The University of Calabar Alumni Association has appealed to the Emir of Kano and Chancellor of the institution, His Highness Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, to intervene in the lingering crisis affecting graduates of the Faculty of Dentistry.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the National Executive Committee (NEXCO) of the Alumni Association to the Emir’s palace in Kano on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Speaking at the event, National President of the Association, Paul Eshiemomoh, commended the monarch for his commitment to the growth of the university, citing his active participation in the institution’s 50th anniversary and 37th convocation ceremonies despite the Ramadan season.
Eshiemomoh said the alumni were deeply concerned about the refusal of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to induct graduates of the Faculty of Dentistry on the grounds that the university exceeded its admission quota.
“This unfortunate situation has dented the image of our alma mater and caused distress to both the affected students and alumni worldwide. A dent on the school’s reputation is a dent on our certificates,” he stated.
According to him, the Vice Chancellor had explained that the medical school was hampered by inadequate teaching equipment and shortage of academic manpower. While the Federal Government had approved funds and a waiver to recruit more staff, Eshiemomoh noted that the release of the funds and recruitment approvals were still pending with the Ministry of Education and the Budget Office.
He urged the Emir to use his influence to reach out to the Minister of Education and the Director General of the Budget Office to fast-track the process, paving the way for the Medical and Dental Council to lift the embargo and induct the affected graduates.
In recognition of his contributions to the institution, the Alumni Association conferred on the Emir the prestigious “Friend of UNICAL Alumni” award and decorated him with the association’s official muffler.
In his response, Emir Bayero pledged to work with the Alumni Association, the University Council, and the Vice Chancellor to address the Dentistry crisis.
