A former Students’ Union Government (SUG) President of the University of Calabar, Blessing Alims, has graduated with a First Class degree, marking another milestone in her trailblazing journey as the institution’s first female SUG president.
Alims, who gained admission in 2020, emerged as one of the top graduates at the university’s 38th convocation. She also ranked among the overall best graduating students, finishing as the sixth best in the institution and the top student from her faculty, department, and local government area.
Speaking in Calabar, she called on Nigerian youths to embrace discipline, resilience, and consistency as key drivers of success despite the country’s challenges.
Sharing her story, Alims revealed that she funded her education through menial jobs, including shoemaking and fashion design at the Cross River Garment Factory. She also volunteered with the Girls’ Power Initiative, balancing work, service, and academics throughout her studies.
“In 2020, I gained admission. In 2024, I made history as the first female SUG President since 1975, leading over 45,000 students. In 2026, I graduated with a First Class,” she said.
During her tenure as SUG president, Alims spearheaded several impactful initiatives, including improving campus transportation with the introduction of five minibuses, awarding ₦1 million to the best graduating student, and sponsoring 50 students through a scholarship scheme.
She also facilitated the installation of a solar-powered borehole to improve water supply in hostels and championed advocacy efforts that led to the development of the university’s first gender policy.
Alims stressed that discipline is a defining trait that separates successful individuals from others, urging young people to take responsibility for their growth rather than blaming external circumstances.
“Discipline is about making the right choices daily, even when it is difficult,” she said.
“The internet is a powerful tool for learning, networking, and economic empowerment, young people must learn to use it productively.”
She further encouraged students and graduates to invest in education, skill acquisition, and entrepreneurship as pathways to personal and national development.