Unical Confers Honorary Doctorate Degrees on Wike, Ekaette Akpabio

The University of Calabar has conferred honorary doctorate degrees on several distinguished Nigerians, including the wife of the Senate President, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The honours were part of events marking the institution’s 50th anniversary celebration held at its main campus in Calabar, Cross River State.

Ekaette Akpabio received an honorary doctorate in Education Management, while Nyesom Wike was awarded an honorary doctorate in Law. Other recipients included retired Major General Moses Bisong Obi, who received a Doctorate in Peace and Conflict Studies, and Supreme Court Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, who was honoured with a Doctorate in Law.

The awards were conferred by the Chancellor of the University and 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. In her acceptance speech, Mrs Akpabio expressed gratitude to the university’s Governing Council and Management, describing the award as a personal milestone. She noted that she had long admired the University of Calabar through her husband, who is an alumnus, and was proud to now be part of the institution’s legacy.

“I was wondering when I will join him as a great Malabress, and that day has come,” she said. She pledged to support the university alongside other honorees, particularly in the area of infrastructure development.

The university praised Mrs Akpabio for her philanthropic work and commitment to women’s empowerment through her NGO, the Family Life Enhancement Initiative. She was recognised for using her platform as former First Lady of Akwa Ibom State to advocate for greater inclusion of women in leadership.

Nyesom Wike, in his remarks, said he was deeply honoured by the recognition and commended President Bola Tinubu, the Visitor of the University, for his efforts in advancing tertiary education in Nigeria.