In a momentous stride toward institutional inclusion and alumni empowerment, graduates of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) have, for the first time, elected their representative to the University’s Governing Council. This landmark development, which marks the full implementation of a 2019 law granting the alumni a seat on the council, is being hailed as a victory for perseverance and participatory governance.
Dr. Ofut Ogar emerged as the pioneer Convocation Representative following a successful election conducted among Convocation members. His election is expected to open a new chapter of alumni engagement in the university’s policymaking process.
On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the UNICROSS Alumni Association, the National President, Dr. Inyali Peter, extended warm congratulations to Dr. Ogar, expressing confidence in his capacity to collaborate effectively with other Council members and influence decisions that will advance the institution.
“This is not just an election; it is the fulfillment of a long-denied right. Dr. Ogar’s emergence is a symbol of what is possible when alumni unite with a shared vision,” Dr. Peter noted.
To commemorate the historic achievement, the Alumni Association commissioned a major project: the completion of four functional conveniences at the ETF and Prefab lecture blocks, facilities widely used for General Studies courses. Although the structures were erected years ago, they had remained unusable due to the absence of basic amenities like water supply and fittings.
The NEC had, two months ago, appealed to the university management to allow the association to take over the abandoned project. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, responded swiftly and positively, instructing her technical team to support the Alumni in ensuring timely delivery.
In just under a month, the association carried out extensive renovations, installed essential fittings, constructed concrete walkways, and drilled a borehole to provide water. The project is now fully completed and awaiting formal handover to the university authorities.
Dr. Peter lauded Prof. Bassey for her visionary and inclusive leadership, which has consistently encouraged alumni participation despite her not being an alumna herself.
“We deeply appreciate our Vice Chancellor for her unrelenting drive and open-door leadership. Her support has inspired us to give back meaningfully. We also commend the Governor and Visitor to the university for appointing a results-oriented academic administrator who is committed to institutional excellence,” he added.
As UNICROSS celebrates this twin milestone—the first convocation representative and the successful delivery of a key infrastructure project—the Alumni Association has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the university’s growth through partnership and purposeful intervention.
