Prof Ekong Named UNIUYO Vice Chancellor

After months of tussle, the Governing Council of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), has named Prof Christopher Nyong Ekong as the new vice-chancellor (VC) for the institution.

The management of the school said he was picked after “a rigorous and transparent selection process.”

Prof Ekong is taking over from the acting VC, Prof Samuel Adewumi, of the Lagos State University (LASU), who was named to fill the void as the acting chief executive of UNIUYO, following a stalemate in the selection of a new substantive VC at the end of tenure of the immediate past VC, Prof Nyaudoh Ndaeyo.

The registrar, Mrs Blossom Okorie, said Ekong, scaled through the process “after an extensive scrutiny exercise, which included the review of applications, assessment of credentials, and interactions with shortlisted candidates.”

“The council approved the appointment of Prof Ekong, as the 9th substantive vice-chancellor of the university, effective June 16, 2026,” she stated.

The registrar said, “the selection process was conducted in line with established legal framework and guidelines, adopting best practices, ensuring fairness, merit, and integrity throughout,” adding that “the new VC emerged as the most suitable candidate, having demonstrated outstanding academic excellence, administrative competence, visionary leadership, and a strong commitment to the advancement of the university.”

“Prof Ekong, is a distinguished scholar in the field of Economics with a proven track record in teaching, research, and administration.

“Prior to this appointment, he served as chairman, Committee of Deans, a position where he made significant contributions to institutional growth and development.

“The Governing Council expresses confidence that under Professor Christopher Ekong’s leadership, the university will continue to advance its mandate of excellence in teaching, research, and community service.

“The appointment takes effect from June 16, 2026.”

Meanwhile, Prof Ekong, has pledged to reposition the Institution in line with its core values as centre for teaching, learning and manpower development.