The University of Uyo Alumni Association has achieved a significant milestone by facilitating the release of a certificate of occupancy to safeguard the institution’s land from further encroachment. The association also called on the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to expedite the release of the university’s take-off grant, which has been pending since the institution began operations in 1991.
Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, President of the University of Uyo Alumni Association and a former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State Assembly, made these appeals during the 2024 alumni reunion held at Ibom Icon Hotel, Uyo. Luke emphasized the importance of the take-off grant in addressing critical challenges confronting the university, a cause previously championed by successive vice chancellors, including the incumbent, Professor Nyaudo Ndaeyo.
Advocacy and Achievements
Luke highlighted the association’s persistent advocacy efforts with stakeholders such as the National Assembly, TETFUND, and the Akwa Ibom State Government, which have resulted in increased funding and opportunities for the university. During his tenure, the association launched key initiatives, including a ₦5 million Research Fund for the Faculty of Pharmacy. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Luke praised the collective resolve of alumni in driving progress.
Ongoing Projects and Future Goals
The association remains committed to fostering excellence through various initiatives, including:
- Recognizing 41 distinguished alumni with awards and ₦200,000 monetary prizes.
- Developing infrastructure such as an Events/Conference Center, Bookshop, and Guest House.
- Establishing leadership training programs for student union leaders to nurture integrity and skill in future leaders.
Luke also called on alumni worldwide to support the completion of ongoing projects, establish exchange programs for students, and contribute to secure electronic voting infrastructure for the upcoming alumni elections.
Contributions to Alma Mater
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, himself an alumnus of UNIUYO, urged alumni to invest in the development of their alma mater. Represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Eno noted that alumni play vital roles in their alma mater’s progress. He challenged alumni to move beyond reunion festivities and make tangible contributions to the institution that shaped their successes.
“It is a misnomer for alumni to thrive individually while their alma mater declines,” Eno stated, likening neglecting one’s alma mater to “pushing down the ladder after climbing up.”
Strengthening the Town and Gown Connection
Guest Speaker Inam Wilson (SAN) emphasized the importance of synergy between academia and society to drive societal excellence. He encouraged universities to explore investment opportunities within their campuses to increase societal value and collaboration.
A Testament of Unity
Chairman of the event planning committee and Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Charles Udoh, described the alumni reunion as a celebration of enduring bonds and shared values. The event culminated with the presentation of awards to distinguished alumni and the inauguration of an electoral committee tasked with organizing electronic voting for a new administration within two months.
