Why I appointed 50 aides — UNICAL first female SUG President

The first female President of the Student Union Government, University of Calabar, Blessing Alims, has explained why she appointed 50 individuals for advisory roles in her administration.

Alims, who recently gained the attention of netizens after being announced the President in the university’s 49-year history, announced the appointment of the aides in a viral letter dated August 1, 2024.

However, her decision has sparked controversies on social media, with many saying that she probably imitated her leadership style from what they described as a “wasteful government” bedevilling Nigeria.

Reacting on Wednesday in a statement signed by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, the newly elected SUG President said her decision was not unconnected to the effective governance, catering to the welfare status of the over 42,000 students from 20 faculties and over 110 departments of the institution.

In the statement titled, ‘Addressing concerns on appointment,’ She said, “The Students’ 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 over 110 departments, the University of Calabar is a complex institution.

“Appointing aides 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.”

Alims noted that the appointments were strictly voluntary and came with no financial compensation, stressing, “They are designed to foster career development, instilling a sense of duty and motivation in the appointees. Each aide underwent a rigorous screening process by the Senate Committee, took an Oath of Office, and is eager to contribute their skills and creativity to the administration.”

The President further maintained that the selection process was merit-based and that each of the appointees brings valuable expertise to support her administration’s goals.

She commended some of the appointees who, she said, have received national and international recognition for their voluntary work while assuring the university community that the aides would deliver.

Alims, a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolutions at the Department of Political Science, was elected SUG President on June 14, 2024.