UNICROSS : “No More Fitting Choice”, Alumni Hails Prof. Bassey’s Appt. As Substantive VC

Prof. Francisca Bassey

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, (today) as announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh. Her confirmation follows the recommendation by the Governing Council after a recent 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 on her well deserved appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor of our prestigious university for a single five-year term. With her remarkable achievements over the past five months and three weeks in an acting capacity, there could not have been a more fitting choice for our institution at this time.

“We also commend Governor Bassey Otu for approving Prof. Bassey’s appointment and for his steadfast commitment to the university since assuming office. Beyond  approving the implementation of the national minimum wage to boost staff morale, he has generously directed the rehabilitation of access roads across our campuses. We could not have asked for more,” the statement reads in part.

Looking ahead, the association stated that 

“While we celebrate this appointment, we recognize that the success of the new leadership will hinge on continued government support. We know Prof. Bassey is a dedicated and industrious administrator, but she will require the necessary resources and backing to fully realize her vision. We therefore appeal to the Governor to maintain his support for the Vice Chancellor to drive the ongoing transformation of the institution.

The association also commended the Chairman of the Governing Council, Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, and the entire 6th Governing Council for overseeing a fair and transparent selection process for the substantive Vice Chancellor.

“We extend our congratulations to the Chairman of the Council, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, and all council members for the transparent process, which guided the Governor’s decision to approve Prof. Bassey’s appointment. We urge the council to work closely with the Vice Chancellor to secure further government support,” the statement added.