UNICAL SUG President defends controversial appointment of 50 aides
By Kunle Sanni
The first female President of the Student Union Government (SUG) at the University of Calabar, Blessing Alims, has defended her decision to appoint 50 aides amid a growing controversy.
Alims, who recently made history as the university’s first female SUG President in its 49-year history, announced the appointments in a letter dated August 1, 2024. The announcement quickly went viral and sparked criticism on social media, with some accusing her of emulating the “wasteful government” practices often seen in Nigeria.
In response to the backlash, Alims issued a statement on Wednesday through her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, explaining that the appointments were necessary for effective governance and to address the welfare needs of the more than 42,000 students across 20 faculties and over 110 departments.
In the statement titled Addressing Concerns on Appointment, Alims stated, “The Student Union Government is tasked with ensuring the welfare and progress of our entire university community. Just as a single tree does not make a forest, effective governance for a student body of over 42,000 requires a collaborative effort. It is essential to have a strong and diverse team to implement our initiatives successfully.
“With over 20 faculties and more than 110 departments, the University of Calabar is a complex institution.
“Appointing advisers ensures representation from each faculty and department, which is crucial for effective student mobilisation and governance. This approach allows us to address the unique needs of each segment of our student population.”
The President also emphasized that the appointments were made on the basis of merit, noting that each appointee brings significant experience to support the administration’s objectives.
She reassured the university community of the aides’ competence, highlighting that some of the appointees have received national and international recognition for their volunteer efforts.
