Blessing Alims, the first female President of the Student Union Government (SUG) at the University of Calabar, has explained her decision to appoint 50 individuals to advisory roles in her administration.
Alims, who recently garnered attention after being elected the first female SUG President in the university’s 49-year history, announced the appointments in a letter dated August 1, 2024, which went viral.
Her decision sparked controversy on social media, with many critics accusing her of emulating what they described as the “wasteful government” practices in Nigeria.
In response, Alims issued a statement on Wednesday, signed by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye, explaining that the appointments were crucial for effective governance and to cater to the welfare of over 42,000 students across 20 faculties and more than 110 departments.
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, emphasizing that they are intended to foster career development and instill 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 appointee 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 Resolution at the Department of Political Science, was elected SUG President on June 14, 2024.
