The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has announced the lineup of activities for the institution’s 38th Convocation Ceremony, while outlining key reforms aimed at repositioning the university.
Victoria Omini - CALABAR
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Vice Chancellor described the convocation as a significant milestone, noting that it is the first to be held under his administration since assuming office on December 1, 2025.
According to him, the convocation ceremony commenced with the press conference and will continue after the Easter break on April 7, beginning with an interdenominational service at the Senator Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre.
He disclosed that other activities lined up include a research fair and exhibition, convocation lecture, command performance, and award ceremonies for diplomas, first degrees, master’s and doctoral degrees.
Prof. Offiong revealed that a total of 10,820 students will graduate during the ceremony. This includes 152 diploma students, 9,173 first degree graduates, and 1,495 postgraduate students. Of the first degree graduates, 52 made First Class, 2,390 earned Second Class Upper Division, 5,819 obtained Second Class Lower Division, while others graduated with Third Class and Pass degrees.
He added that 463 Ph.D. graduands will also be awarded their degrees, alongside honorary degrees and the launch of the university’s endowment fund.
The convocation lecture, scheduled for April 9, will be delivered by Major General Garba Ayodeji Wahab (rtd), with a focus on national security and the role of tertiary institutions.
Beyond the convocation, the Vice Chancellor highlighted ongoing reforms centered on excellence, innovation, and integrity. He emphasized efforts to sanitize the admission process, curb over-admission, and ensure transparency in recruitment through proper advertisement and merit-based selection.
Prof. Offiong also raised concerns over certificate racketeering and forgery, warning that perpetrators will be identified and prosecuted. He called on the public to report any individuals demanding bribes for admission or employment.
The administration, he noted, is also addressing infrastructural deficits, digitalizing university operations, improving student welfare, and strengthening security and accountability systems.
Reaffirming his commitment to restoring the institution’s reputation, the Vice Chancellor assured stakeholders that more comprehensive updates on reforms would be provided in subsequent engagements.
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