Udie, a former Director of Academic Planning in the University, was elected by members of the College community in a peaceful and orderly process, on Friday, October 23, 2026.
By Frank Ulom
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Published on October 24, 2026
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2 min read
Prof. John Udie has emerged as the substantive Provost of the College of Education, University of Calabar (UNICAL), after polling 281 votes in an election held at College Auditorium 1B.
Udie, a former Director of Academic Planning in the University, was elected by members of the College community in a peaceful and orderly process, on Friday, October 23, 2026.
In his acceptance remarks, the newly elected Provost expressed appreciation to members of staff for the confidence reposed in him and for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the College.
He pledged to foster unity, collaboration and inclusiveness among staff, noting that collective commitment would be essential to achieving the College’s academic and institutional objectives.
Prof. Udie assured the College community that his administration would be anchored on purposeful, transparent and inclusive leadership, with a clear focus on repositioning the College as a centre of excellence that meets global standards and embraces international best practices.
He appealed to Deans and other stakeholders to work closely with his administration in building a College that would be recognised for academic distinction, effective administration and quality service delivery.
The new Provost further expressed his commitment to aligning his administration with the focal drive of the 12th Vice-Chancellor, particularly its emphasis on academic excellence and service with integrity, emphasising that the successful transformation of the College would depend on collective effort, mutual cooperation and a shared vision.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Anthony Okiwelu, described Udie’s emergence as well-deserved, noting that it reflects the confidence of the College community in his capacity to provide effective leadership.
Prof. Offiong charged the new Provost to leverage his wealth of experience and expertise to advance academic excellence and take the College to greater heights, urging him to approach his new responsibilities with dedication, vision and strong commitment to institutional development.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended members of the College community for their peaceful and orderly conduct throughout the electoral process, describing it as a demonstration of maturity and commitment to the University’s values.
