Akwa Ibom lawmaker Idem receives commendation for supporting emerging University

Tony Okoh, Uyo

Founder, Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Bassey James, has expressed profound gratitude to the Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr. Unyime Idem, for his significant support towards the growth and development of the institution.

Dr. Idem, who also serves as a member of the University’s Governing Council, recently pledged to construct a classroom block and donated the sum of N10 million to the institution.

The lawmaker made the announcement during the commissioning of the institution’s largest male hostel, named in his honour, at the university’s maiden matriculation ceremony.

In a press statement issued on Saturday in Uyo, Pastor James said the management, staff, and students of the university deeply appreciate the lawmaker’s generosity, praying for divine blessings and replenishment for his kind gesture.

He noted that the institution, which recently held its first matriculation ceremony, remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders and supporters of education to ensure the holistic development of future leaders in Nigeria.

Describing Dr. Idem as a renowned philanthropist and an effective representative, Pastor James stated that the lawmaker’s contributions at the National Assembly have significantly improved the lives of his constituents.

“The Governing Council, management, and staff of Southern Atlantic University remain grateful to Dr. Unyime Idem. His donation of a classroom block and the sum of N10 million will greatly enhance the institution’s infrastructure and learning environment,” he said.

The founder further revealed that the university has instituted a tradition of honouring distinguished Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to humanity by naming key infrastructure after them, as a way of encouraging others to serve society selflessly.

Pastor James emphasized that the institution is focused on maintaining high academic standards, promoting excellence, and equipping students with entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in a competitive global environment.

“We have assembled some of the finest academic minds to guide the university. Our goal is to build a sustainable institution that will compete favourably with both national and international universities. With vision and determination, everything is achievable,” he added.

He disclosed that the university is expanding its academic scope to include agriculture, business development, and service-oriented programmes, in line with its mission to produce well-rounded graduates.

Pastor James also highlighted recent appointments to the Governing Council, including Dr. Unyime Idem, Prof. Akpan Ekpo, Prof. Etete Peters, Prof. Innocent Victor Modo, Barr. Samuel Adejo, a former Director of Private Universities at the National Universities Commission, and Mr. Mkposong Asuquo, among others.

According to him, the appointments are part of efforts to strengthen the institution’s leadership structure and build a lasting legacy for future generations.

A criminologist and security communication expert, Pastor James described Nigeria as a great nation with vast potential, urging citizens to contribute meaningfully to national development.

He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to delivering world-class education, stating that Southern Atlantic University is fully approved by the Federal Government and currently offers 15 academic programmes.

These include Cyber Security, Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Political Science, International Relations and Diplomacy, Microbiology, and Public Administration, among others.

The university boasts modern facilities such as 24-hour security, smart lecture theatres, and an e-library. Strategically located along Km 50, Airport Road, Uyo, the institution is accessible by both air and road transport.

Pastor James also called on parents and guardians to take advantage of the university’s relatively affordable tuition and ongoing admission opportunities through the JAMB portal and accredited CBT centres.

He reiterated that Southern Atlantic University is poised for growth and remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education anchored on global best practices.