March 12, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Esq, on Thursday, attended the 10th induction ceremony of professional teachers into the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria at the University of Calabar. The event, organised by the College of Education, University of Calabar brought together education stakeholders, administrators, and graduating education students who were formally inducted into the teaching profession.
Speaking as the Chairman of the occasion, Professor Odey noted that teaching remains a noble profession that plays a critical role in national development. He stated that having served as a teacher at different levels, from primary and secondary schools to the university level, he has a deep passion and respect for the profession. The Commissioner stressed that many key parastatals in Nigeria are currently headed by well-educated individuals, adding that the time has come for teachers to receive the recognition they truly deserve. He congratulated the newly inducted teachers and commended the College of Education, the Provost, and the entire team for their commitment to training competent educators.
He further emphasized that teachers must be given their rightful place in society, noting that no society can grow without teachers. According to him, beyond becoming teachers, the focus should be on producing quality teachers capable of shaping future generations, the Commissioner stated as he acknowledged the tremendous contributions of the University of Calabar to the development of the education sector, noting that the large number of inductees reflects the institution’s commitment to producing well-trained and competent educators.
Professor Odey equally commended the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria for making it mandatory for individuals who wish to practice as teachers to be properly registered, describing the move as a step in the right direction toward strengthening professionalism in the education sector. Addressing the newly inducted teachers, the Commissioner described their induction as a call to service, urging them to uphold the values and ethics of the profession as they move into the larger society. He reminded them that teaching is a noble profession that shapes the future of the nation.
Senator Odey also commended the leadership of the Cross River State Governor, Senator Dr. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his commitment and unwavering support toward the growth and development of the education sector in the state. Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of an Award of Honour to the Commissioner by the newly inducted students in recognition of his immense contributions toward societal sustainable development and the student community.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including D.I.G Udom Ekpoudom, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, who was represented, the Registrar of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, Dr. Mrs. Ronke Soyombo; the Provost of the College of Education, Prof. Effa Cerman Anagbogu and other distinguished guests.