Unical Seeks MTN Support to Boost Sports, Infrastructure Development
By Ekanem Asuquo
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has called for a strategic partnership with MTN Nigeria to strengthen digital infrastructure and advance sports development at the institution.
Prof. Offiong made the appeal during a courtesy visit by MTN representatives to his office, describing the telecom company as long-standing ambassadors of the University. He commended MTN for recognising the University’s contribution to shaping its alumni and for returning to honour the institution.
Highlighting the University’s ongoing reforms, Prof. Offiong noted that key administrative processes, including staff promotions and academic documentation, are being digitalised. However, he identified poor network connectivity on campus as a major challenge affecting these initiatives and urged MTN Nigeria to assist in improving network infrastructure to enhance digital operations.
The Vice-Chancellor also emphasised the University’s prominence in Nigerian university sports, revealing that it will host the NUGA Games later this year. He expressed optimism that collaboration with MTN would help develop sustainable sporting facilities, avoiding the short-lived infrastructure left from the last NUGA Games hosted in 1990.
“MTN Nigeria can be a reliable partner in achieving our dual goals of sports excellence and digital transformation,” Prof. Offiong said, stressing that the University remains committed to upholding academic standards alongside sports development.
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Mrs. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting youth athletics, noting the return of the MTN Champs Athletics Championship to Cross River State for its fourth season. She highlighted the success of previous initiatives, including student-athlete Destiny Reuben, now undergoing professional training through the MTN Athletics Training Programme.
Also present were UNICAL’s Deputy Vice-Chancellors, the Registrar, the Bursar, and MTN officials, underscoring the importance of forging a strong partnership to enhance the University’s sports and digital infrastructure.
The collaboration is expected to provide lasting benefits for students, athletes, and the broader University community while strengthening UNICAL’s position as a hub of academic and sporting excellence.
