From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Alumni Association has unanimously backed Prof. Francisca Bassey, the acting Vice Chancellor, for confirmation as the substantive VC of the institution.
Hon. Njang Ndoma, National Secretary of the Association, said their decision follows an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC).
The NEC cited Prof. Bassey’s exceptional performance over the past five months, particularly her ability to secure government support for critical reforms and drive significant progress.
The association noted “she has proven her unique ability to engage effectively with the government, attracting investments and improving staff welfare.
“Some of her notable achievements include securing government approval for reconstructing access roads within the university, attracting investors, backed by TETFUND, to build new student hostels and appointing over 60% of UNICROSS alumni to key positions, demonstrating her commitment to mentoring graduates for higher responsibilities”, it said.
The alumni association said Prof. Bassey’s leadership reflects the emotional attachment with UNICROSS and urged Governor Bassey Otu, the Visitor to the university, to approve Prof. Bassey’s confirmation as substantive VC, citing her remarkable achievements in a short time.
The association also directed its representatives on the university council to lobby other council members to support Prof. Bassey’s candidacy while also calling on the governing council to ensure a transparent and fair process in selecting nominees for the Visitor’s consideration.