The first female Student Union Government President at the University of Calabar Blessing Alims Iripia, has made headlines by appointing 50 aides to her administration.
The appointments mark a significant milestone in the university’s 49-year history.
Alims Iripia, who was elected as the UNICAL SUG President in June 2024, announced the appointments on her Facebook page on August 4, 2024.
She wrote, “After carefully examining and assessing the following individuals based on their conduct, credibility, enthusiasm, transparency, and commitment to the Students’ Union Government’s progress and advancement, I am pleased to announce the following appointments for the efficient operation of Blessing_Alims_Led_Administration.”
The list of appointees includes Comrade Cynthia Maduekwe, who has been appointed as the Press Secretary. This is also a historic first as Maduekwe is the first female to hold this position in the SUG’s history.
Blessing Alims, a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolutions in the Department of Political Science, hails from Gakem in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State. She made her appointments after receiving confirmation from the Senate.
In her post, Alims Iripia emphasized the importance of each appointee’s role in the efficient functioning of her administration.
She stated, “The appointments take immediate effect after screening and confirmation by the Senate.”
The announcement has sparked a range of reactions online. Some praised the appointments, while others expressed mixed feelings.
One IG user, @juliusplake, commented, “Real President General among the nations 😁,” highlighting the historic nature of the appointment.
@nyinyechi0 expressed a playful tone, saying, “Naso e they start😂😂😂 Tinubianna,” showing a mix of amusement and curiosity about the new appointments.
A comment from @hyacinth__joel read, “3 Personal assistants??? You sure sey you go still Dey write exam so?” raising questions about the practicality of having so many aides.
@ebychytoo commented humorously, “And inside those 50 Aides u must find one Akpabio, one Onunaga, one Reno, and one INEC chairman🤣🤣🤣🤣,” while @wofai.u joked, : “😂😂😂She even get SA on Fitness”.
