UNICAL VC reiterates desire to opens more doors for women

Prof. Florence Obi, the Vice-Chancellor, University of Calabar has reiterated her desire to ensure that her work and position opens more doors for women in the institution and nationally.

The vice-chancellor made this known when she received the Nigerian Ambassador to Angola, Prof. Monique Ekpong, who paid her a courtesy visit in her office on Tuesday in Calabar.

According to Obi,  as vice chancellor, she had given responsibilities to various women and none had failed her.

“Women are even doing better than what is generally expected of them, breaking protocols and excelling in various endeavours,’’ she said.

The vice-chancellor said she was elated with the appointment of Ekpong as ambassador, and described her as an exceptional woman who had done so well over the years.

“For me, I see your appointment as divine and God’s way of lifting Cross River women. It is only God who makes kings and queens, my joy knows no bounds.

“You are the image of Nigeria in Angola, so carry yourself with dignity. We are praying for you and we are proud of you,” she said.

Obi enjoined the ambassador not to relent in her duties and obligations, and urged women to support each other.

Earlier, Ekpong commended the vice-chancellor for the giant strides recorded in the institution since her assumption of office.

According to her, God has chosen Obi and used her to open doors for other women.

She highlighted some of her achievements as the Nigerian ambassador to Angola to include restoration of direct flight between both countries.

Ekpong said her focus in academics was on gender studies, saying that she sees herself as a tool in God’s hand to draw attention to the fact that women could equally achieve greater things when the opportunity presents itself.

She also used the occasion to urge women to have confidence in themselves and believe they were capable of achieving and breaking records wherever they find themselves.

“As women, we need to strive to do the right thing at all times in order to not only improve the society, but also change the narrative.

“Let’s attempt and get into positions, by so doing, the mentality of everyone can change,” she said.