The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Professor Chike Princewill Chike, has declared zero tolerance for cultism, sexual harassment, criminality and other forms of misconduct, as he formally assumed office.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the university’s CBN Hall, Professor Chike pledged to uphold discipline and restore confidence in the institution’s administration.
He warned both students and staff against conduct capable of undermining peace and academic excellence on campus.
“If you cannot work under a clean slate, then you may have to leave,” he said, stressing that his administration would be anchored on accountability and ethical leadership.
The Vice-Chancellor unveiled an eight-point strategic agenda focused on academic excellence and quality assurance, research and innovation, digital transformation, institutional harmony, internationalisation, student support and success, financial sustainability, and resource mobilisation.
He also appealed to alumni, the private sector and other stakeholders to support the institution, noting that government funding alone is insufficient to meet the needs of higher education.
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“The federal government cannot do it alone. Our institution needs support. Help pay the school fees of some students. Our laboratories need support. Our research centres need support. Our centres of excellence need support,” he said.
Professor Chike further challenged students and academic staff to pursue world-class achievements, including Nobel Prizes, insisting that global excellence is attainable within Nigeria.
Meanwhile, students of the university expressed optimism that the new administration would improve learning conditions and address key challenges affecting campus life.
At the ceremony, they called for improvements in infrastructure, hostel accommodation and student welfare.
A 400-level Human Physiology student, Precious Timothy, appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to prioritise the rehabilitation of learning facilities.
“Most of the time you’ll be in class and there are leakages. There are no chairs in the classrooms. We also need the windows repaired and the walkways fixed so we can have a better place to learn,” he said.
Another student, Okedi, called for reforms in student unionism and improved welfare for students.
“The student union election should be free and fair. It shouldn’t be based on sentiment. I also want the Vice-Chancellor to be friendly to students and consider building more hostels because many departments still lack adequate accommodation,” he said.
Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 17th Governing Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, said the selection process that produced Professor Chike was transparent and strictly guided by due process.
According to him, 22 professors, including candidates from universities in Nigeria and Ghana, participated in the highly competitive process before Professor Chike emerged as Vice-Chancellor.
The students expressed hope that the new administration would translate its promises into tangible improvements that enhance teaching, learning and overall campus life at the institution.
