A Legacy of Transformation: Prof. Daniel Udo Bows Out at College of Education, Afaha Nsit

By Tukura Matthew

In a grand ceremony marking the 8th through 13th combined convocation of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, the outgoing Provost, Professor Daniel G. Udo, delivered his valedictory address, presenting a robust scorecard of a transformative five-year tenure.

Appointed in an acting capacity in 2019 by then-Governor Udom Emmanuel, Professor Udo was charged with stabilizing the institution, which was facing significant challenges. His performance led to his confirmation as the substantive Provost in 2020. His mission was clear: to correct, stabilize, and leave the college better than he met it—a task he has accomplished.

Professor Udo’s tenure began during the turbulent COVID-19 lockdown, which caused a drastic shortfall in internally generated revenue (IGR). He inherited a college grappling with unpaid seven-month salary arrears for casual and part-time staff.

Undeterred, his administration took decisive action. They restored the college's financial health, cleared the salary backlog, and spearheaded a comprehensive digital overhaul. A key achievement was the implementation of a college portal for all payments, result computation, and transcript processing, overcoming initial resistance from those benefiting from the old, manual system.

The college now boasts one of the best Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Akwa Ibom State. Upgraded to a 250-candidate capacity with 32 CCTV cameras, and complemented by a new 608-capacity ICT complex, the centre has become a vital resource. It successfully hosts examinations for JAMB, the Nigerian Police, TRCN, SUBEB, and various professional councils, generating significant revenue and prestige for the institution.

Under Professor Udo’s leadership, the college recorded a 100% accreditation success rate for both its NCE programmes under the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) and its degree programmes affiliated with the University of Uyo. The institution also reintroduced an amnesty programme to wide acclaim.

Other notable achievements include:

· Reconnection of the college to the national grid.

· A stabilized academic calendar.

· The introduction of electronic identity cards for staff and students.

· Approval to operate a demonstration school.

· Consistent improvement in staff and student welfare.

· Up-to-date payments for casual and part-time staff upon his exit.

A Valedictory Appeal and a Gracious Exit

Reflecting on the college's evolution, Professor Udo noted that degree programmes now form a larger part of its identity, reinforcing his advocacy for its upgrade to a University of Education.

In his final official act, he made two heartfelt appeals to the current Governor, Umo Bassey Eno. First, he reiterated the case for upgrading the college to a university. Second, he appealed for the provision of official vehicles for the four other Principal Officers—the Registrar, Librarian, Bursar, and Chief Security Officer—who were appointed alongside him in 2020 but were never assigned official transport.

“As they end their tenure this October, may it please you... to let them return home with new vehicles,” Udo pleaded. “This will enable them to resume their divine positions as Daddies and Mummies in the family and regain respect after sacrificing their old cars for the college.”

Described by former Governor Udom Emmanuel as “a very good Provost,” Professor Udo expressed profound gratitude to all stakeholders. He declared that he bore no grudges as he exited office, leaving behind a debt-free institution set on a clear path for future success.

His tenure has not only addressed immediate crises but has firmly positioned the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, as a model of profitable and progressive tertiary education in Akwa Ibom State.