The University of Calabar (UNICAL) held its 37th Convocation Lecture and Award Ceremonies on Thursday, March 20, 2025, as part of its 50th Anniversary Celebration. The event featured a lecture delivered by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, MON, in the presence of several Members of the House of Representatives.
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to their fields and to the university. Among the honourees was Ambassador Ayi-Ekpenyong Imah, Managing Partner of Bosker Law Practice, former Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Legal Education Committee & General-Purpose Committee, and former Students’ Union Government (SUG) President at UNICAL.
Ambassador Ayi-Ekpenyong Imah was conferred with the prestigious “Face of UNICAL at 50” Award. The award was presented by Prof. Eyong Ubana Eyong, the Provost of the College of Postgraduate School and Chairman of the UNICAL at 50 Central Planning Committee, on behalf of the university. Prof. Eyong highlighted that the institution considered Ayi-Ekpenyong’s achievements in the legal profession, his unwavering integrity, and his contributions to the university’s development, especially towards the Students’ Union Government.
In his acceptance speech, Ayi-Ekpenyong Imah expressed deep gratitude for being honoured by his alma mater. He credited the university for laying the foundation of his academic and professional success and reaffirmed his commitment to excellence, leadership, and continued support for the institution. He dedicated the award to God Almighty, his late parents, and his law lecturers.
Other eminent alumni who received awards at the ceremony included: Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, President of the Nigerian Senate, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prof.) Sandy Onor and Hon. Justice Festus Ntong, JCA.
Others are; Hon. Justice Emmanuel Agim, JSC, CFR, Hon. Justice Abang Okon, Senator John Owan Enoh, Dr. Ambrose B.C. Orjiako, Mr. Umana Okon, CON, Mr. Ekpenyong Esien Ita, CFR, MNI (Former DG of SS), Prof. Ngozi Osaren, Keppy Ekpenyong, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Senator Stephen Odey and Dr. Betta Edu, Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation
The University of Calabar at 50 celebration continues with more events aimed at commemorating the institution’s legacy of academic excellence and leadership development.