UNICAL, Opay Seal Partnership to Establish Cybersecurity Laboratory
By Ekanem ASUQUO
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) and Opay Digital Services Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to set up a modern Cybersecurity Laboratory on campus, marking a significant step in the university’s efforts to boost digital security and promote industry-focused learning.
The signing took place at the Vice Chancellor’s Conference Room, where the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Effiong Offiong, and the Registrar, Dr. Chukwuka Icha, signed for the university, while Opay’s Director of Partnerships, Ikponwosa Odiase, and Corporate Responsibility Manager, Itoro Ekanem, represented the company.
In his remarks, Prof. Offiong said the partnership aligns with his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity through meaningful collaborations. He explained that the new facility will help protect the university’s digital systems, improve cyber preparedness, and provide students with hands-on training.
The Vice Chancellor expressed confidence that the lab will equip students for careers in cybersecurity and position UNICAL as a leading training centre for cybersecurity professionals in the country.
Odiase noted that the collaboration reflects Opay’s corporate social responsibility focus on empowering young people with digital security skills. He said the company remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance cyber safety and combat online threats.
The event was attended by top university officials including the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Linkages and Collaboration, Prof. Peter Okafor, the University Librarian, Prof. Aniebiet Ntui, Director of the Legal Unit, Barr. Jonas Abuo, and Public Relations Officer, Effiong Eyo. Also present was Opay’s Associate Director, Merchant Acquiring Education, Olumide Olubobokun.
The MoU underscores the deepening relationship between UNICAL and Opay, paving the way for improved digital literacy, innovation, and strengthened cybersecurity capacity within the institution.
