Thursday July 2, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Abat Town in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State is in a celebratory mood following the appointment of one of its most accomplished daughters, Prof. Ini Idungima Uko, as the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Uyo.
The historic appointment, announced on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, has been described by the community as a fitting reward for years of academic excellence, dedicated service, and exemplary leadership in the nation’s university system.
In a congratulatory message signed by the Village Head of Abat Town, Chief (Pastor) Ikwaibom Etetor, the community said the appointment was not only a personal achievement for Professor Uko but also a moment of immense pride for Abat Town, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, and Akwa Ibom State.
The community noted that Professor Uko’s elevation reflects her unwavering commitment to scholarship, character, and service, expressing confidence that she would bring her wealth of experience and administrative competence to bear in advancing the academic fortunes of the University of Uyo.
“Your appointment is a testimony that diligence, integrity, and excellence never go unnoticed. Abat Town is proud to celebrate this remarkable milestone with you,” the message stated.
Professor Uko, a renowned Professor of English and widow of the late Dr. Idungima Robinson Uko, has enjoyed a distinguished academic career spanning several decades. Before her latest appointment, she served meritoriously as Dean of Student Affairs and Head of the School of Basic Studies at the University’s Ime Umanah Campus, earning widespread respect for her commitment to academic discipline, student development, and institutional growth.
The community described her emergence as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) as historic, noting that she remains the first professor of Abat Town extraction and one of the most accomplished female academics to emerge from Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.
It further observed that her appointment represents another milestone in the advancement of women into top leadership positions in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
According to the message, Prof. Uko’s success serves as an inspiration to young people across the community, especially girls, proving that determination, hard work, and excellence can open doors to the highest levels of professional accomplishment.
While congratulating their illustrious daughter, the people of Abat Town prayed that Almighty God would endow her with sound health, uncommon wisdom, divine guidance, and the strength required to excel in her new assignment. They expressed optimism that her tenure would be marked by innovations, academic excellence, and policies that would further enhance the reputation of the University of Uyo as one of Nigeria’s leading institutions of higher learning.
The community reaffirmed its support and goodwill, wishing Prof. Uko a successful, impactful, and memorable tenure as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), while expressing confidence that she would continue to make Abat Town, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, and Nigeria proud through her service to humanity.
Abat Town Celebrates As Prof Ini Idungima Uko Emerges UNIUYO DVC
