UNICROSS Vice-Chancellor Leads Delegation to Government House, Showcases Award-Winning Innovations

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has led a delegation of the University Council members and Management team to the Government House, Calabar, to present two of the institution’s national award-winning inventors and their groundbreaking innovations to the Visitor to the University and Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

The inventors, Prof. Babson Ajibade and Engr. Dr. Joseph Ukpata, were introduced to the Governor alongside their pioneering innovations – the BMV-6 Medical Ventilator developed by Prof. Ajibade and the Automatic Gari Fryer invented by Dr. Ukpata. A pitch video demonstrating the BMV-6 Medical Ventilator’s global uniqueness was played for the Governor, while Prof. Bassey further explained the Automatic Gari Fryer and its prospects for large-scale food processing.

Prof. Bassey disclosed that the ventilator is scheduled to represent Cross River State and Nigeria at an international exhibition in London. Responding, Governor Otu, who was pleasantly surprised to learn that the BMV-6 Medical Ventilator originated from a UNICROSS staff, commended the breakthrough as a remarkable achievement. He requested a proposal for the London exhibition and assured the University that the State Government would sponsor the trip.

The Governor also expressed great interest in the Automatic Gari Fryer, describing it as a vital tool for boosting agricultural initiatives in the state. He pledged that Cross River State would be given priority in acquiring the product for government-led agricultural projects. Overwhelmed by the presentations, Governor Otu remarked that such developments were a clear indication of the positive transformation UNICROSS is experiencing under the leadership of Prof. Francisca Bassey, adding with delight, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.”

In her response, Prof. Bassey expressed deep gratitude to the Governor for his magnanimity and attentiveness to the progress of UNICROSS, noting that his support would further strengthen the University’s role in advancing research and innovation.

The Vice-Chancellor was accompanied on the visit by Prof. Mrs. Akon Joshua, member of the UNICROSS Governing Council and former Acting Vice-Chancellor; Mrs. Catherine Ajibike, also a Governing Council member; Prof. Mrs. Stella-Maris Okey, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic); and Mr. Idim Effiom Ekenem, Acting Registrar.

The event concluded with a photo session to commemorate the historic occasion.