Akakan Umoh
Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has called on the new Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Prof. Chris Ekong to focus on building a stronger future for the university rather than dissipating energy on the past activities.
Governor Eno advised the Vice Chancellor to leave the past behind by abhorring unnecessary probes of the previous administrations, which could distract him from achieving meaningful progress.
Eno gave the advice on Wednesday when the Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), the new Vice Chancellor, and members of the institution’s management paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Uyo.
‘‘I want you embrace inclusive leadership, remain magnanimous in victory, and channel your energy toward advancing the institution’s academic excellence,’’ he enjoined.
Describing the Vice Chancellor as “a square peg in a square hole,” the Governor said Prof. Ekong’s outstanding academic credentials, leadership experience, and record in public service make him the right person to lead the University at this critical time.
Eno congratulated the new Vice Chancellor on his appointment, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen the university’s reputation and position it among Nigeria’s leading public institutions of higher learning.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving Prof. Ekong’s appointment as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, he acknowledged the roles played by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the immediate past Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Adewumi, in ensuring a smooth selection process.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to education, assuring the University’s leadership that the State Government would continue to sustain its bursary scheme for students and expand partnerships that will promote research, innovation, and infrastructural development within the institution.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), whiole presenting Prof. Ekong to the Governor, described him as an accomplished administrator and seasoned academic whose wealth of experience will further enhance the growth and prestige of the University.
Dr. Banire applauded Governor Eno for his remarkable investments in education and other developmental projects across Akwa Ibom State, describing his administration as visionary, people-oriented, and impactful.
Responding, Prof. Ekong thanked Governor Eno for his consistent support for the University of Uyo and pledged to provide purposeful leadership that will preserve the institution’s academic excellence while justifying the confidence placed in him.
Ekong’s Profile
