UNICAL first female SUG President appoints 50 aides

University of Calabar (UNICAL) Student Union President (SUG), Blessing Alims, has appointed 50 aides who would help her in an advisory role in her administration.

Alims, currently a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolutions at the Department of Political Science, was elected SUG President on June 14, 2024, and also explained the reasons for her action.

She made the announcement about her aides in a viral letter dated August 1, 2024. However, her decision has created controversies on social media, with many Nigerians comparing her to the country’s wasteful style of government, saying she probably imitated her leadership style from them.

Reacting on Wednesday in a statement signed by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, the newly elected SUG President said her decision was not unconnected to the effective governance, catering to the welfare status of the over 42,000 students from 20 faculties and over 110 departments of the institution.

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In the statement titled, ‘Addressing Concerns on Appointment,’ she said, “The Students’ Union Government is tasked with ensuring the welfare and progress of our entire university community. Just as a single tree does not make a forest, effective governance for a student body of over 42,000 requires a collaborative effort. It is essential to have a strong and diverse team to implement our initiatives successfully.

“With over 20 faculties and over 110 departments, the University of Calabar is a complex institution.

“Appointing aides ensures representation from each faculty and department, which is crucial for effective student mobilisation and governance. This approach allows us to address the unique needs of each segment of our student population.”

Alims noted that the appointments were strictly voluntary and came with no financial compensation, stressing, “They are designed to foster career development, instilling a sense of duty and motivation in the appointees.

She also said each aide underwent a rigorous screening process by the Senate Committee, took an Oath of Office, and is eager to contribute their skills and creativity to the administration.”

The President further maintained that the selection process was merit-based and that each of the appointees brings valuable expertise to support her administration’s goals.

She commended some of the appointees who, she said, have received national and international recognition for their voluntary work while assuring the university community that the aides would deliver.