The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has approved a series of strategic appointments and renewals aimed at strengthening leadership and enhancing service delivery across key academic and administrative units of the institution.
Among the appointments is that of Dr. Lawrence Ekwok as Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies. Dr. Ekwok, who recently completed a successful tenure as Head of the Department of Mass Communication, is widely recognized for his contributions to academic development, departmental growth, and administrative excellence during his time in office.
The Vice-Chancellor also approved the appointment of Prof. Elizabeth Godfrey Akpama as Director of the Career and Student Support Services Centre. In a related development, Dr. David Francis Ekpoto has been appointed Acting Head of the Department of Education Geography and Sustainable Development Studies.
Similarly, Dr. Odey John Adiya has been named Acting Director of the Tetfund Centre of Excellence in AI, Robotics and Cyber Sciences (ARCS).
The Vice-Chancellor further approved the renewal of the appointment of Dr. Godwin Irokaba as Director of the Centre for Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity (C-DEI) for another and final tenure.
The appointments were conveyed through separate letters signed by the Vice-Chancellor. The appointments of Prof. Akpama, Dr. Ekpoto, Dr. Ekwok and Dr. Adiya will run for an initial period of two years, effective from June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2028. Dr. Irokaba’s renewed tenure will span three years, from June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2029.
According to the letters, the appointees are expected to deploy their expertise, experience, and professional exposure toward the efficient administration of their respective offices and centres to promote productivity, innovation, and quality service delivery.
The Vice-Chancellor charged the newly appointed officers to align with the vision and mission of the current administration while upholding the core values, policies, and standards of the University. He particularly emphasized strict compliance with Tetfund operational guidelines in the management of the ARCS Centre.
Prof. Offiong also reiterated the administration’s commitment to accountability and performance, stressing that heads of departments and principal officers are expected to achieve measurable results within established timelines.
Relevant units of the University have been directed to extend full cooperation and institutional support to the appointees, while outgoing office holders have been instructed to ensure seamless handover processes where necessary.
The appointment of Dr. Ekwok has been welcomed by colleagues and stakeholders within the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, who view his emergence as a recognition of his record of service, leadership, and commitment to academic excellence during his tenure as Head of Department.
