UNICROSS ELEVATES NINE ACADEMIC STAFF TO PROFESSORIAL AND READER RANKS

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has officially announced the promotion of nine distinguished academic staff members. This development follows a rigorous appraisal process conducted by External Assessors, affirming the scholars' contributions to research, teaching, and global academic standards.

The announcement was made on Thursday, April 23, 2026, during an emergency meeting of the University Senate at the Calabar campus.

I. PROMOTIONS TO THE RANK OF PROFESSOR

Five scholars have been elevated from the rank of Reader to Professor, the highest academic rank within the university system:

• Professor Joseph Ukpata – Department of Civil Engineering
• Professor Nkpa Ogarekpe – Department of Civil Engineering
• Professor Adebisi Adesola – Department of Accounting
• Professor Sunday Ebaye – Department of Peace and Conflict Studies
• Professor Ferdinand Kamgba – Department of Physics

II. PROMOTIONS TO THE RANK OF READER

Four lecturers were promoted from Senior Lecturer to the rank of Reader (Associate Professor):

• Dr. Patrick Ushie – Department of Physics
• Dr. Ujong Peter Ujong – Department of Medical Biochemistry
• Dr. (Mrs) Victoria Iyishu – Department of Library and Information Science
• Dr. Jerome Egbe – Department of Civil Engineering

III. VICE-CHANCELLOR’S COMMENDATION

Professor Francisca Bassey commended the newly promoted academics for their unwavering dedication and scholarly resilience. She noted that these advancements are a direct reflection of:

• Individual Merit: Exceptional performance in research and community engagement.
• Institutional Growth: UNICROSS’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in higher education.
• Global Standards: Successful validation by external academic authorities.

> "Their advancement reflects both individual merit and the institution’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement."

CONCLUSION: CELEBRATING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The University community extends its heartiest congratulations to these scholars. These promotions signify a steady upward trajectory for UNICROSS as a hub for intellectual development and specialized research in Nigeria.

Please be guided accordingly.

Signed:
Management
University of Cross River State (UNICROSS)