UNICAL First Female SUG President Gives Reasons She Appointed 50 Aides

The first female president of the Student Union Government, University of Calabar, Blessing Alims, has addressed the reasons for appointing 50 individuals in advisory roles within her administration. Alims, who recently gained the attention of the public after being announced as the first female President in the university’s 49-year history, announced the appointment of the aides in a formal letter dated August 1, 2024. However, this decision has sparked discussions on social media, with some individuals suggesting that she may have emulated the leadership style of what they described as a “wasteful government” affecting Nigeria.

In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, the newly elected SUG President clarified that her decision was made in the interest of effective governance and to cater to the welfare needs of the over 42,000 students from 20 faculties and more than 110 departments within the institution.

The statement, titled “Addressing Concerns on Appointment,” stated, “The Students’ Union Government is tasked with ensuring the welfare and progress of our entire university community. Just as a single tree does not make a forest, effective governance for a student body of over 42,000 requires a collaborative effort. It is essential to have a strong and diverse team to implement our initiatives successfully.” The University of Calabar is a complex institution with over 110 departments. Appointing student aides ensures representation from each faculty and department, which is crucial for effective student mobilization and governance. This approach allows the administration to address the unique needs of each segment of the student population”.

The President of the Student Union Government (SUG), Alims, noted that the appointments were strictly voluntary and came with no financial compensation. She emphasized that the appointments were designed to foster career development, instilling a sense of duty and motivation in the appointees. Each aide underwent a rigorous screening process by the Senate Committee, took an Oath of Office, and is eager to contribute their skills and creativity to the administration.

The President further maintained that the selection process was merit-based and that each of the appointees brings valuable expertise to support the administration’s goals. She commended some of the appointees who have received national and international recognition for their voluntary work and assured the university community that the aides would deliver. Alims, a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolutions at the Department of Political Science, was elected SUG President on June 14, 2024.