By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Management of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has reassured students, parents, guardians and the general public that the institution remains safe and secure, following concerns raised over the safety of students residing in hostels, particularly Malabor and Halls 8 and 9.
The assurance was contained in a statement issued by the University’s Public Relations Department in response to comments by the Secretary of the Niger Delta Activists Forum, Comrade Ogar Emmanuel Oko, on the general security situation in the hostels.
The University stated that the welfare and safety of students remain the highest priority of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Offiong Efanga Offiong, and the entire management.
As part of efforts to further enhance campus security, the management said the Chief Security Officer, in collaboration with the Dean of Students’ Affairs, has been directed to strengthen security operations across all hostels.
The measures include intensified day and night patrols, tighter access control at hostel entrances, and improved surveillance around female hostels.
The statement added that the University is collaborating with relevant security agencies to sustain a safe learning and living environment for students and staff.
Management stressed that the safety and wellbeing of students are non-negotiable, warning that any act capable of threatening campus security would be met with appropriate disciplinary and legal action in line with the University’s regulations.
It further disclosed that the University is working closely with hostel porters, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) and Hall Executives to promote vigilance and encourage the prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
Students were also advised to safeguard their personal belongings and immediately report any security concerns to the University’s security unit.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure academic environment, the University appreciated stakeholders for their concern over student welfare and reiterated that the University of Calabar remains safe and secure for learning and residence.
