UNICAL: Prof. Akpama, Ekwok, Others Appointed Into Key Positions
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has approved the appointment of Prof. Elizabeth Godfrey Akpama as Director, Career and Student Support Services in Centre.
In the same vein, Dr. David Francis Ekpoto mounts the saddle as Acting Head of the Department of Education Geography and Sustainable Development Studies even as Dr. Lawrence Ekwok takes charge as Deputy Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.
Dr. Odey John Adiya was also appointed as Acting Director, Tetfund Centre of Excellence in AI, Robotics and Cyber Sciences (ARCS).
The Vice-Chancellor also approved the renewal of the appointment of Dr. Godwin Irokaba as Director, Centre for Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity (C-DEI).
The appointments were conveyed in separate letters signed by the Vice-Chancellor.
The appointments of Prof. Akpama, Dr. Ekpoto, Dr. Ekwok and Dr. Adiya are for a period of two (2) years in the first instance, taking effect from 1st June 2026 and ending on 31st May 2028.
The renewal of Dr. Irokaba’s appointment is for another and final tenure of three (3) years, with effect from 1st June 2026 to 31st May 2029.
The appointees, as conveyed by the letters, are expected to bring their wealth of knowledge, exposure and experience to bear in the effective administration of their respective offices and centres to ensure optimal productivity and service delivery.
As appointees of the Vice-Chancellor, they are required to align with the mission and vision of the current administration while upholding the values, policies and expectations of the University at all times.
The Director of the Tetfund Centre of Excellence in AI, Robotics and Cyber Sciences is also expected to ensure strict adherence to Tetfund policies in the operation of the Centre.
The Vice-Chancellor further emphasized accountability, noting that Heads of Departments and other principal officers are expected to deliver measurable results within stipulated timelines, failing which appropriate sanctions may be applied.
Relevant sections of the University have been directed to accord the appointees all courtesies, recognition and cooperation associated with their respective offices.
Former occupants of the affected offices have also been directed to carry out proper handover processes where applicable.
Who is Dr Lawrence Ekwok?
Dr Ekwok is a journalism teacher in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, a journalist with over two decades of practice. He is a cleric and former Cross River State Chairman of PFN.
He is currently the Editorial Board Chairman of THE BEAGLE NEWS, the leading community- based newspaper in South-South geopolitical zone.
He is an advocate of peace and a leader with passion for excellence
