Blessing Alims, the University of Calabar’s first female President of the Student Union Government (SUG), defended her decision to appoint 50 aides for advisory roles in her administration on Wednesday. This announcement, made in a letter dated August 1, 2024, sparked social media controversies.
In a statement signed by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, Alims emphasized the necessity of her decision, highlighting the significant responsibilities of governing a student body of over 42,000 students across 20 faculties and over 110 departments.
“The Students’ Union Government is tasked with ensuring the welfare and progress of our entire university community,” Alims stated. “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.”
Alims explained that the university’s complexity necessitated such appointments. “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 mobilization and governance. This approach allows us to address the unique needs of each segment of our student population.”
She clarified that the positions were voluntary and did not come with any financial reward. “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,” she added.
Alims highlighted that the selection process was merit-based, ensuring that each appointee brings valuable expertise to support her administration’s goals. She praised some of the appointees who have received national and international recognition for their voluntary work and assured the university community of their capability to deliver.
Blessing Alims, a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at the Department of Political Science of UNICAL, made history as the first female President of the SUG in the university’s 49-year history. Her appointment of 50 aides has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics on social media suggesting that her leadership style mirrors what they describe as the “wasteful government” practices in Nigeria.
Despite the controversies, Alims stands firm in her decision, advocating for a collaborative and representative approach to student governance.
