UNIUYO’s Vice Chancellor Targets Digital Transformation, Campus Security

The University of Uyo (UNIUYO) has entered a new chapter with the assumption of office by Prof. Christopher Ekong ,as the institution’s 9th substantive vice chancellor.

Prof. Ekong officially took over leadership of the university from the acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Adewumi, who was appointed following the leadership vacuum created by the departure of the 8th substantive Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, in December 2024,amid a succession controversy.

A distinguished professor of economics, former Chairman of the Committee of Deans, and an alumnus of the university, Prof. Ekong pledged to implement far-reaching reforms aimed at strengthening academic excellence, enhancing security, combating cultism, and addressing other social challenges affecting the institution.

Speaking during his inaugural address, the new vice chancellor said he was assuming office with a clear vision to reposition the University as a globally competitive institution driven by technology, innovation, transparency, and student-centred administration.

He emphasized that his administration would focus on fulfilling the university’s core mandate of teaching, research, and manpower development while creating an enabling environment for students and staff.

As part of his ambitious 100-day action plan, Prof. Ekong announced a series of strategic initiatives, beginning with a comprehensive overhaul of campus security.

According to him, the university will deploy modern CCTV surveillance systems at strategic locations across its campuses, introduce drone technology for enhanced monitoring and emergency response, review existing security structures, and establish a centralized digital security control room to improve the safety of students, staff, and visitors.

The vice chancellor also unveiled plans for an extensive digital transformation programme.

This includes expanding internet and network connectivity across faculties, departments, hostels, libraries, and administrative buildings, as well as providing campus-wide Wi-Fi access to support teaching, learning, and research activities.

He further disclosed that his administration would upgrade the institution’s ICT infrastructure over the next five years to facilitate e-learning, digital administration, online service delivery, and stronger digital governance.

On infrastructure development, Prof. Ekong promised immediate assessment and rehabilitation of critical academic and administrative facilities.

Planned intervevntions include the renovation of lecture halls, laboratories, and office complexes, alongside improvements to road networks, drainage systems, street lighting, and environmental sanitation across the university.

Addressing student welfare, the vice chancellor revealed plans to introduce Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements for the management and maintenance of students’ hostels.

He added that existing hostel facilities would be rehabilitated while welfare and student support services would be strengthened.

Prof. Ekong also outlined measures to advance academic excellence and research.

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These include reviewing academic processes to improve efficiency and quality assurance, promoting interdisciplinary research and innovation, expanding collaborations with national and international institutions, and enhancing opportunities for research funding and grant acquisition.

“My vision is to build a secure, digitally connected, research-driven, and globally competitive University of Uyo,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the first 100 days of his administration would lay the foundation for sustainable institutional growth and excellence.

“The University of Uyo possesses immense potential. Together, we shall build a stronger institution defined by innovation, accountability, academic excellence, and service to humanity,” he added