The Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has been installed as the 6th Chancellor of the University of Calabar, UNICAL on Southern Nigeria.
The installation ceremony was held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Calabar in Cross River State, southern Nigeria.
The ceremony, which was performed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi, was attended by the governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and top government officials from Kano State, the Oblong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu the Sixth and other top ranking traditional rulers across Nigeria.
Others present at the event included the deputy governor-elect of Cross River State, Mr. Peter Odey, State legislators, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the university, General Martin Luther Agwai, the former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Edem Duke and top management of the institutions.
Shortly after the installation ceremony, the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero expressed gratitude to the Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who is also the Visitor to the university for finding him worthy to be the 6th Chancellor.
Strengthening Ties
The traditional ruler commended the people of Cross River State and university community for according him and his entourage a rousing welcome, which he described as “the highest demonstration of affection and hospitality that would enhance closer and warmer relationships between the peoples of Kano and Cross River States.”
Bayero expressed commitment towards the growth and development of the institution as well as urged management, staff and students to collaborate to surmount challenges confronting the university.
“I will engage the Nigerian Government and relevant agencies to look into the accommodation problem of staff and students. We will explore the possibility of erecting a befitting senate building for the university. We will work hard to ensure that our university continues to occupy a place of pride in the educational rating amongst Nigerian universities,” Bayero stated.
Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Instrument of Office, in a scroll, to the Chancellor by the representative of the Visitor, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff to the Nigerian President Buhari.
With this installation, the Chancellor will perform his first official function, which is to preside over the 35th convocation of the university in line with the Section 4, sub section 1 of the University of Calabar Act 1979.
Confidence Okwuchi