By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chief Hilary Bisong, Ph.D, has celebrated his mother, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Banku Obi, on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and passion for education.
In a heartfelt message on Thursday, 19th September, Bisong paid tribute to his mother’s impact both as a parent and as an academic leader.
“My Mother, My Everything! Today, we celebrate not just your birthday but the remarkable life you’ve lived—a life defined by wisdom, resilience, and an unshakable passion for education. Your dedication has inspired countless students, faculty, and the entire University of Calabar community,” he stated.
The lawmaker, who represents Boki II State Constituency, further acknowledged Prof. Obi’s role in shaping his life, noting her constant love, guidance, and support as instrumental to his personal growth and achievements.
“As a mother, you remain a constant source of love, guidance, and support. Your influence has shaped me into the man I am today, and for that, I am eternally grateful,” Bisong said.
He prayed for her continued strength, good health, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead, wishing her joy, laughter, and boundless blessings on her new age.
Brief Profile of Prof. Florence Obi
Prof. Florence Banku Obi is the 11th and first female Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, a position she assumed in December 2020. Since her appointment, she has championed reforms aimed at strengthening academic standards, improving infrastructure, and enhancing staff and student welfare.
Under her leadership, UNICAL has expanded digital learning platforms, upgraded laboratories and lecture halls, and pursued collaborations with international institutions to improve research output. She has also prioritised transparency in administration, reforms in examination processes, and greater inclusivity for female students and staff.
Prof. Obi, a distinguished academic in Special Needs Education, previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) and Dean of the Faculty of Education at UNICAL. She is widely respected for her contributions to teacher education, gender advocacy, and community service.
Her tenure has been marked by initiatives to restore discipline on campus, improve the institution’s global ranking, and foster a culture of academic excellence.
