By Divine Sam
In a bold demonstration of commitment to educational advancement and institutional development, a federal lawmaker and member representing Ukanafun federal constituency Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem has pledged to construct and donate a befitting registry complex to the University of Uyo, aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and strengthening record management systems within the institution.
The pledge was made during the 6th Distinguished Annual Registry Lecture of the university, held at the 1,000-seater Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) Auditorium. The event, themed “Leadership for Change: The Way Forward for University and Societal Transformation,” brought together academics, administrators, and key stakeholders in the education sector.
Beyond infrastructure support, the lawmaker also reaffirmed his resolve to facilitate the release of the institution’s take-off grant by the Federal Government. This move follows a motion he earlier presented on the floor of the House, advocating for the disbursement of statutory take-off grants to the University of Uyo and other federal universities across the country. He further disclosed plans to engage TETFUND to expedite the process, noting that the release of the grant is critical to boosting infrastructure expansion and improving overall service delivery.
Speaking at the event, he underscored the importance of visionary leadership in driving institutional growth and societal transformation. According to him, universities must be strategically positioned to respond to emerging challenges through innovation, accountability, and reforms that align with global standards.
Hon. Idem who is the chairman house committee public procumbent in the federal house of representatives reiterating his longstanding commitment to the education sector, the lawmaker highlighted several of his past interventions, including the sponsorship of students on local and international scholarships, construction and equipping of schools and ICT centres, as well as the distribution of educational materials to pupils and students.
In his remarks, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Samuel Odewumi, commended the lawmaker for his consistent support for education and public institutions. He noted that such interventions reflect a clear understanding of the vital link between governance, policy implementation, and sustainable development.
As a mark of appreciation, the university conferred on him an Award of Excellence in Public Service and Leadership, recognizing his impactful contributions to societal and institutional transformation in Nigeria.
The high-profile lecture also witnessed the presence of notable stakeholders from Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, including political leaders, former public office holders, and business executives, all of whom joined in reinforcing the call for stronger support for Nigeria’s higher education system.
The event concluded with renewed optimism that sustained collaboration between government, institutions, and intervention agencies like TETFUND will reposition Nigerian universities for global competitiveness and national development.
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