Detailing News

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has highlighted the need for greater political inclusion and support for women aspiring to leadership positions. Professor Bassey made the call in Abuja during the launch of “HER Unity Circle” by the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA), held as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration. She noted that “Nigerian women have shown capacity and competence in leadership across several sectors. If the masses believe in their abilities, they should allow them to lead.  The VC who called on women to embrace unity and collaboration as key drivers of leadership and national development, urged them to mentor younger women in order to build a stronger and more inclusive society. Explaining that the theme of the event, “Her Power, Our Unity: Empowerment, Leadership and National Transformation,” was timely, she emphasized that women can achieve grea...

  In a bid to boost staff morale and create a more conducive working environment, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has commenced the distribution of newly procured modern office furniture to Professors, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, and very senior academic and non academic staff across the institution. The furniture, provided through the intervention of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), was presented during a brief ceremony on Thursday, March 5, 2026.  The initiative is aimed at improving office facilities for senior academic and non academic staff and enhancing departmental administrative efficiency. Speaking while presenting the items to the beneficiaries, Prof. Bassey urged the recipients to ensure proper maintenance and careful handling of the furniture.  She emphasized that the initiative reflects the University’s management commitment to creating a conducive environment that suppor...

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, on March 3, 2026, conducted an inspection tour of ongoing capital projects at the Calabar Campus as part of Management’s commitment to quality assurance and timely project delivery. The tour commenced at the new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Block located beside the Faculty of Engineering. Professor Bassey expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and the quality of finishing, commending the contractor for adhering to agreed specifications and timelines. The facility, which will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, is expected to expand the University’s digital infrastructure and enhance teaching, learning, and research in ICT-related fields. The Vice Chancellor also inspected the University’s Professorial Office Block project in Calabar.  While reviewing progress on site, she expressed concern over the slow pace of work and the quality of finishing...

  In line with the Cross River State Government’s commitment to strengthening security across public institutions, the Director of the Homeland Security and Safety Agency – South, Chief Michael Nsan, has led a high-level delegation on a courtesy and assessment visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, to evaluate the institution’s security and safety needs. Chief Nsan explained that the visit was part of a state-wide mandate to ensure that government-owned facilities, including tertiary institutions, are adequately protected through modern, coordinated security frameworks. “Our governor is very serious about security and takes the state’s security architecture very seriously. We have been mandated to assess government facilities, understand their challenges, and work out ways to strengthen their security systems,” Chief Nsan said. According to him, the Agency is particularly interested in understanding the university’s e...

  After a prolonged leadership crisis in the University of Cross River State, UNICROSS, the Visitor to the University, Governor Bassey  Otu, took decisive action on February 26, 2025, by appointing Prof. Francisca Bassey, a highly regarded, results-oriented administrator as Acting Vice Chancellor. Her outstanding performance during this interim period paved the way for her confirmation as substantive VC on July 17, 2025, where, in a rigorous interview process, she emerged top among contenders, impressing the Governing Council with her clear articulation of a practical and ambitious vision, coupled with the undeniable evidence of her exceptional achievements in just five months as Acting VC. 315 days at the helm, Prof. Bassey has proven the Visitor right in his judgment to appoint her as the second substantive female VC of the institution. Bassey, a Professor of organic chemistry has orchestrated a symphony of transformations across all campuses, turning challenges into opportu...

  The Cross River State Coordinator of African Council for Communication Education, Dr. Emmanuel Inyang has urged young scholars to contribute their quota to scholarship without fear of resentment. Responding to a Whatsapp post made by Ugoji Nwabueze, who alluded that most of our colleagues, especially the new generation of scholars have failed the litmus test of academic humility, Inyang argued that there is no scholarship without arguments and that one cannot study to earn the highest academic degree only to remain docile in the name of humility.  He urged scholars to contribute to scholarship by putting forth strong arguments, noting that in the end, superior arguments would take the center stage.

The Eval of Adadama Kingdom, in Abi local government area of Cross River State, has applauded Dr. Betta Edu for her unwavering commitment to education and community upliftment following her full payment of school fees for all children in Adadama Ward for the just-concluded 2024/2025 academic session. The monarch also expressed gratitude to her for once again renewing hope by offsetting the fees for the 2025/2026 school year, a gesture that has significantly boosted enrolment across several schools in the community. Speaking at a community gathering over the weekend, the monarch described the gesture as “a demonstration of purposeful leadership and a heart committed to easing the burdens of the less privileged.” He noted that this year marks a decade-from 2016 to 2025-of uninterrupted scholarship support, with 29,166 individual scholarships provided within the period. According to the Eval, Dr. Edu first intervened during the 2016 communal clash between Adadama and neighbouring communit...

We are dedicated and determined to accomplishing the underlined initiatives through synergy and strategy with relevant authorities for the realization of our ambitions, with an emphasis on "Refining the system" with the aim of guaranteeing PGSG UNICROSS growth and development. 1. EDUCATION: The nation's economy and the ethical reorientation of all its citizens are centered on education. Any society's ability to develop is directly connected with the standard of education that its members have access to. Our first priority is still education. In order to obtain scholarships for UNICROSS postgraduate students, we will establish strong connections with the PG School management and other pertinent authorities. • By offering free Internet services and distributing passwords to all qualified PG students, we will lessen the expense and stress of research for PG students and guarantee on-time graduation. • We will purchase a good generator as an alternative power supply...

  By Detailing News  The President of the Postgraduate Students Government of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Comrade Ewelu Otu, has led members of his Executive Council on a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, to deliberate on key issues affecting postgraduate students. During the meeting, held at the Vice Chancellor’s office, Comrade Ewelu introduced his team and commended Professor Bassey for her strides in strengthening campus security.  The discussions focused on pressing concerns, notably the prolonged delays in issuing certificates and transcripts, which the postgraduate leader said had hindered graduates’ opportunities for employment and further studies. He stressed the need for a timely and organized academic calendar to avert such challenges. Comrade Ewelu also urged the university to prioritize qualified postgraduate students for employment opportunities.  In her response, the Vice Chancellor, on the proposed ...

  By Itam Offor  The Cross River State House of Assembly has called on the State Government, through the Ministry of Education and the Scholarship Board, to reintroduce scholarship and bursary awards to Cross River students. The Lawmakers had deliberated on a Motion presented by the Member representing Yakurr 2 State Constituency and the only female legislator in the Assembly, Hon Mercy Mbang Akpama. Leading the debate on her motion, Akpama reiterated that scholarship awards are for deserving students, based on merit and also for those without financial resources to pursue their academic endeavours. She lamented that, for over 8 years, the State Scholarship Board has not implemented any scholarship programme and urged them to source scholarship opportunities for deserving students. " The Board, as part of its mandate, also sources funds from Public-spirited individuals, private companies, NGOs...NDDC, Central Bank of Nigeria etc, to enable it to sponsor scholarship programmes....

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, Professor Francisca Bassey, has once again reaffirmed her administration’s deep concern for the well-being of the University workforce by initiating a full week dedicated to celebrating staff. This historic gesture, unprecedented in the annals of the institution, marks a defining moment in the relationship between the University leadership and its personnel. What had often been overlooked in the past—the morale and general welfare of those who work behind the scenes to uphold the institution has now been brought to the forefront under Professor Bassey’s stewardship. The week-long celebration, known simply as "Staff Week," featured a series of engaging and thoughtful activities designed not only to appreciate staff contributions but also to foster a sense of unity and rejuvenation among them. Among the scheduled events were professional talks, comprehensive health check-ups, a fitness walk, a friendly football match...

A new wave of commendation has swept through the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) following the recent staff-focused initiative spearheaded by the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey.  The UNICROSS Alumni Association has applauded the Vice Chancellor for what it described as a groundbreaking and people-centred leadership approach, particularly in the area of staff welfare. The association expressed delight over the introduction of a dedicated “Staff Week” a first in the university’s history, which featured a range of activities designed to celebrate and uplift the workforce. These activities included wellness talks, medical screenings, a fitness walk, a novelty football match, awards, and a staff dinner. Speaking with Detailing News, Dr. (Mrs.) Peace Egbai, Acting Head of the Department of Broadcasting and National Public Relations Officer of the UNICROSS Alumni Association, described the initiative as a bold and commendable move that has repositione...

  By Uket Oka, Calabar  The Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), has been commended for empowering Cross River youths with cutting-edge knowledge in satellite technology and digital communication. The state governor, Prince Bassey Otu, made the commendation, Monday, while declaring a 5-day NIGCOMSAT Youth empowerment workshop organised by NIGCOMSAT in collaboration with the Cross River State Government through the state Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, held at the University of Calabar. Otu, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Justin Antisng Beshel, expressed optimism that the workshop with the theme: “Building grassroots innovation in satellite technology,” would foster innovation, enhance technical skills and create opportunities for the youths in the ever-evolving space-tech industry. He noted that the state’s collaboration with the Nigerian Communication Satellite Ltd is providing the state gov...

  The Acting Head of the Department of Broadcasting at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. (Mrs.) Peace Egbai, has congratulated Professor Francisca Bassey on her confirmation as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. Professor Bassey’s appointment was approved by the Visitor to the University and Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, following a rigorous selection process overseen by the University’s Governing Council. In her congratulatory message, Dr. Egbai praised the Vice Chancellor for what she described as a brilliant and outstanding performance during the selection process, stating that Professor Bassey had proven to be the right person for the job. She further stated some of the notable achievements already recorded by Prof. Bassey in her short time as Acting Vice Chancellor, saying they are clear indications of her capability, commitment, and leadership strength. “Her confirmation is well-deserved. She has demonstrat...

 ‎ ‎The President of UNICROSS Postgraduate Students Government  (PGSG) Comrade Ewelu, Otu Okoi ( Great Ewelu ) has Congratulated Professor Francisca Bassey on Her Emergence as Substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. ‎ Describing her appointment as a dream come true, the PGSG President noted that it had long been the earnest desire of postgraduate students to see Professor Bassey confirmed as VC. "Today, that prayer has become reality, and we couldn’t be more proud," he stated. ‎He added that the postgraduate students have great confidence in her leadership, believing that the university is in safe and visionary hands. "Your emergence brings hope, and we are optimistic that UNICROSS will witness a new season of growth and transformation," the President said. ‎He further pledged the full support of the postgraduate students to her administration, expressing Assurance to working together to make the university a more conducive and progressive space for all. ‎

  Hon. Orok Otu Duke Ph.D, the Cross River State representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has taken to social media to celebrate two significant academic achievements within his nuclear and extended families, a trait which reflects his long-standing commitment to family, mentorship, and community support. In a pair of touching tributes posted on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday and Thursday, Dr. Duke first congratulated Amayo Orok Duke, his daughter, for her remarkable academic feat of earning multiple advanced degrees from prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom. “The parents, family, and community get elated and excited when their masquerade dances very well in the market square,” he wrote with poetic pride. “Amayo Orok Duke, well done!” Amayo’s academic résumé includes a Bachelor of Arts from Royal Holloway, University of London, and three master’s degrees from the University of Westminster, Goldsmiths College, University of Lon...

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Alumni Association has hailed the appointment of Prof. Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the University. Prof. Bassey, initially appointed as Acting VC in January 2025, was confirmed as substantive on Thursday, July 17, 2025, as announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh. Her confirmation follows the recommendation of the Governing Council after a recent of interview.  In a statement by the Spokesperson of the association, Dr. Peace Egbai who is also the Head of Department of Broadcasting in the University, the association described the appointment as one of the best things to happen to the university in recent times. Expressing appreciation to the university’s Visitor, Governor Bassey Otu, the alumni emphasized that Prof. Bassey’s accomplishments during her tenure in acting capacity made her the ideal candidate for the role. “We heartily congratulate Prof. Francisca Bassey o...

  The Head of the Department of Mass Communication and Member of the Governing Council of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. Victor Ndifon, has extended his congratulations to Professor Francisca Bassey on her recent appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the university. In a message issued on Monday, Dr. Ndifon described Professor Bassey’s appointment as a well-deserved recognition of her longstanding commitment to academic excellence, integrity, and visionary leadership. “Your elevation to this esteemed position is a testament to your dedication to the growth of the academic community and your impressive track record in research, administration, and mentorship,” he stated. He expressed optimism that the new Vice Chancellor’s leadership would usher in a new era of innovation, inclusiveness, and institutional stability, which are essential for the ongoing transformation of the university. “At this pivotal time in the life of the university, I have no dou...

  Cross River State Governor and Visitor to the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the appointment of Professor Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. Her appointment, which takes immediate effect, was based on the recommendation of the University’s Governing Council following what official sources described as a rigorous, transparent and merit-based selection process. Professor Bassey, a seasoned academic, administrator, and researcher, brings over three decades of experience in higher education. A distinguished alumna of the University of Calabar, she has served in various leadership positions including Head of Department, Dean, and Deputy Vice Chancellor. According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Governor Otu’s approval reaffirms his administration’s commitment to competence, meritocracy, and the strategic positioning of Cross Riverians i...

The Mike Etaba Foundation (MEF) was officially launched on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the Ofodua Commercial Secondary School, Obubra, in a ceremony that drew dignitaries, stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, and students from across the local government area. The event marked a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to promote education, charity, and community development. The Mike Etaba Foundation is a self-sponsored, charitable and hospitality-driven initiative established by a group of passionate supporters of Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, aimed at consolidating and extending the philanthropic vision of their principal. The foundation was born out of a collective desire to give back to society in appreciation of Hon. Etaba’s unwavering support and numerous interventions across the constituencies. MEF is committed to promoting education, youth empowerment, health awareness, and social welfare through grassroots initiatives. The major highlights of the event included:...