Otu Appoints Bassey As Cross River Varsity VC

Professor Francisca Bassey has been appointed as the substantive vice chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) by Governor Bassey Otu.

Bassey becomes the first woman to hold this position since the institution’s transformation into a full-fledged university.

A letter dated July 17, 2025, titled “Our Ref: SSG/GSA/S/78/VoLix1506,” signed by Secretary to State Government (SSG) Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh and sighted by LEADERSHIP, stated that Prof. Francisca’s appointment takes immediate effect.

Her appointment follows a rigorous, merit-based, and transparent selection process involving top academic minds within and outside the state.

An alumni of the University of Calabar, Bassey is a renowned scholar, researcher, and administrator with over thirty years of experience in teaching, research, and academic administration.
Bassey has served in various capacities, including Head of Department, Dean, and Deputy Vice Chancellor, with numerous peer-reviewed publications and policy engagements in social sciences.

Professor Bassey aims to elevate the university’s profile, promote academic excellence, research, and innovation, and reaffirm its role in human capital development in Cross River State and beyond.

The state government has assured her of unwavering support, emphasising education’s importance in the “People First” governance agenda under Governor Otu’s leadership.

Governor Otu expects Prof Bassey to provide bold, transformative leadership that consolidates existing gains to reposition UNICROSS as a hub of academic excellence.

The Governor believes the university system should be anchored on global standards and is confident in Professor Bassey’s ability to lead with distinction.