The Senate of the University of Calabar has approved the renaming of its former Registry Building in honour of the institution’s pioneer Registrar, late Dr. Onofiok Ufot.
This decision, according to a Sunday statement, acknowledges Ufot’s invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the university and his distinguished legacy in education and administration.
The renaming of the building coincides with Ufot’s recent posthumous induction into the Hope Waddell Hall of Fame, an honour bestowed upon him as part of the 130th-anniversary celebrations of the Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar.
The statement noted that Ufot played a pivotal role in establishing the administrative framework that had guided UNICAL’s progress over the decades.
“His contributions extended beyond administration—he was a mentor to young academics, a guiding force in university governance, and a respected leader in the education sector.
“His visionary leadership helped lay the foundation for the institution’s culture of knowledge, innovation, and community service,” the statement said.
The university stated, “Though he may no longer be physically present, his work, ideals, and values remain deeply woven into the fabric of UNICAL.
“For the University of Calabar, the legacy of late Elder (Dr.) Onofiok Andrew Ufot is not just history—it is a guiding light for the future.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Udeme Ufot expressed gratitude to the Senate of the UNICAL for the honour conferred on their late patriarch.
“It is gratifying to note that our father’s pioneering efforts have been recognised so many years after his passing.
We are immensely grateful to the university for this noble gesture, which will serve as great encouragement to those currently in positions of responsibility.
“We are particularly delighted that this year, the Hope Waddell Old Students Association also admitted him into the Hope Waddell Hall of Fame as part of the 130th-anniversary celebrations of the Hope Waddell Training Institution. As his children and grandchildren, we are exceedingly proud of his legacy,” Udeme said.
The university further added that as it celebrates five decades of academic excellence, immortalising Ufot’s name on one of the key administrative buildings reaffirmed the institution’s gratitude and commitment to the ideals he championed.
