The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for restoring peace and security across Cross River State, saying the administration’s proactive security interventions have revitalised academic activities and created a conducive environment for learning, investment and development.
Prof. Bassey gave the commendation on Thursday while speaking with journalists during a collaborative security summit organised in Calabar by the Cross River State Government in partnership with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies to strengthen cooperation against insecurity.
The Vice Chancellor praised the Governor’s visionary leadership and the commitment of the security agencies, describing the transformation in the state’s security landscape as remarkable and a major factor in restoring public confidence.
She said the coordinated, intelligence-driven operations of the security agencies, backed by the Governor’s unwavering support, have significantly reduced criminal activities and strengthened the protection of lives and property across the state.
Recalling the situation before the present administration, Prof. Bassey said Cross River was plagued by kidnappings, violent crimes and cult-related clashes that disrupted socio-economic activities and posed serious threats to academic pursuits.
According to her, members of the university community were among those affected by the insecurity, as fear and uncertainty made movement difficult and undermined the smooth conduct of lectures, examinations and other academic engagements.
“The story has changed significantly. Today, UNICROSS operates in a peaceful and secure environment where teaching, learning and examinations are conducted without disruption. Staff, students and residents can move freely across the state, even at night, with renewed confidence in the security architecture,” she said.
Prof. Bassey attributed the improved security situation to Governor Otu’s purposeful leadership, the professionalism of the security agencies and the synergy among them in tackling criminality through intelligence-led operations.
She noted that the prevailing peace has not only enhanced academic excellence at UNICROSS but has also positioned Cross River as an attractive destination for education, investment and broader socio-economic development.
The Vice Chancellor urged states still battling insecurity to emulate Cross River’s approach by demonstrating strong political will, promoting effective inter-agency collaboration and engaging critical stakeholders in building sustainable peace.
She also reaffirmed UNICROSS’ appreciation for the Cross River State Government’s continued support for higher education and pledged the institution’s commitment to partnering with government and security agencies in advancing peace, safety and an enabling environment for teaching, research and community service.
Prof. Bassey maintained that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and security, stressing that the gains recorded in Cross River provide a strong foundation for continued educational advancement and economic growth.
By Kingsley Agim
