By Assam Abia
The immediate past Chairman of the Governing Council of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Sir Bassey Dan-Abia, has commended Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for signing into law the Executive Bill converting the institution into the University of Education, Afaha Nsit.
Dan-Abia described the governor’s assent as a landmark achievement that would significantly advance educational development and human capital growth in Akwa Ibom State.
In a statement issued on Monday, the former governing council chairman said the governor had demonstrated visionary leadership by establishing what he described as a specialised institution dedicated to teacher education, educational research, innovation and manpower development.
He noted that the upgrade represented more than a change of name, adding that it marked the birth of an institution that would serve as a centre of excellence in teacher education for Nigeria and beyond.
According to him, Gov. Eno has “etched his name permanently in the annals of educational development” through the historic decision.
Dan-Abia, a lawyer and former House of Representative member for Eket Federal Constituency, congratulated the Governing Council, management, academic and non-academic staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders of the former College of Education for what he described as the successful culmination of years of dedication, resilience and commitment.
He also congratulated the people of Afaha Nsit and Akwa Ibom State, expressing confidence that the new university would stimulate academic excellence, research, employment opportunities and socio-economic development.
The former law maker urged the state government to sustain the momentum by completing all implementation processes required for the smooth take-off of the institution.
He called for the prompt establishment of governance structures, academic programmes and other statutory requirements necessary for the accreditation of courses and the successful commencement of academic activities.
Dan-Abia expressed optimism that the University of Education, Afaha Nsit, would emerge as a beacon of knowledge, innovation, character and academic excellence for future generations
