UNICAL's first female SUG President, Blessing Alims, defends her appointment of 50 aides, citing the need for effective governance of over 42,000 students. She emphasizes that the roles are voluntary and aimed at fostering career development and ensuring diverse representation across the university's faculties and departments
Blessing Alims, the first female President of the Student Union Government at the University of Calabar, has sparked significant debate by appointing 50 aides to assist in her administration.
Her decision, announced in a letter dated August 1, 2024, has drawn both criticism and support from the university community and beyond.
Critics argue that Alims is emulating what they describe as "wasteful governance" prevalent in Nigerian politics. Some have questioned the necessity of appointing such a large number of aides for a student government, comparing it to the excesses often seen in national politics.
On social media, users expressed concerns that this move mirrors the corruption and inefficiency they criticize in government leaders. Comments ranged from calling her decision a "worthless emulation of rogue leaders" to questioning the need for so many aides in a student organization.
In response, Alims defended her decision in a statement by her Press Secretary, Madueke Chinenye. She emphasized that effective governance for a student body of over 42,000 students from 20 faculties and 110 departments requires a collaborative effort.
According to Alims, the appointments are essential for representation and addressing the unique needs of each segment of the student population. She also clarified that these positions are voluntary and come with no financial compensation, aiming to foster career development and instill a sense of duty in the appointees.
Alims, a student of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolutions, asserted that the selection process was merit-based and each appointee brings valuable expertise. Despite the backlash, she remains confident that her team will contribute positively to her administration's goals and deliver effective governance for the university community.
