Akwa Ibom State University Acting Vice Chancellor Outlines Agenda for Growth

The Acting Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Professor OtoAbasi E. Akpan, has unveiled plans to reposition the institution academically and infrastructurally as one of Nigeria’s leading conventional universities.

Professor Akpan disclosed this during town hall meetings with members of the university community on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the Main Campus, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, and Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the Obio Akpa Campus, Oruk Anam Local Government Area.

Outlining his vision, the Acting Vice Chancellor announced that AKSU, now a conventional university, would diversify its programmes beyond science education. He highlighted plans to establish a Medical School, Law Programme, Environmental Studies, and other strategic fields, alongside new courses in Innovation, Entrepreneurial Studies, and Robotics. He further expressed his goal of doubling the postgraduate student population.

To strengthen research and development, Professor Akpan revealed that the University Senate had been briefed on his proposal to create five institutes and seven centres.

On welfare, he pledged improved benefits for staff, including buses, enhanced healthcare services, and better accommodation facilities. For students, he assured them of upgraded sports facilities and more academic opportunities. He also noted that the National Universities Commission (NUC) would be invited to verify new postgraduate programmes.

In his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Eta-Ewa Oboho, commended the Acting Vice Chancellor for setting a clear and ambitious agenda, urging staff to embrace discipline and dedication. Similarly, the Head of Campus and Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Nkanikpo I. Ibok, praised his leadership style and pledged full support.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Registrar and Secretary to Senate, Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, FNIM, represented by the Director of Human Resources, Mr. Raphael Ukeme, applauded Professor Akpan’s commitment and called on staff to give maximum cooperation. He stressed the importance of shared responsibility in building the university.

Staff members at the meetings pledged their unflinching support to the Acting Vice Chancellor, appreciating his people-centered approach to leadership. The event also featured a cultural performance by the Pinnacle Troupe from the Department of Performing Arts.

In attendance were principal officers, deans of faculties, heads of departments and units, teaching and non-teaching staff, students, and members of the Directorate of Information, Public Relations and Protocol.