Professor Christopher Nyong Ekong has been appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo.

An abridged profile made available to newsmen on Thursday indicates that Ekong, an indigene of Uyo Local Government Area, was born on October 25, 1967, during the Nigerian Civil War.

The new Vice Chancellor studied Economics at the University of Cross River State, now University of Uyo, graduating in 1988, before earning a Master’s degree from the University of Port Harcourt.

He joined the University of Uyo as an Assistant Lecturer in 1993 and later obtained a PhD in Economics in 2001 under the supervision of Akpan Hogan Ekpo.

Within the university, Ekong rose through the ranks, serving as Head of Department of Economics, Director of International Programmes, and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

He also delivered the university’s 73rd inaugural lecture, focusing on development challenges and policy solutions in Nigeria.

Outside academia, Ekong built a strong profile through consultancy and development work, including engagements with the United Nations Development Programme and the Shell Petroleum Development Company.

His public service career began in 2001 when he was appointed by Victor Attah into the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission.

He later served as Commissioner for Youth and Sports, and Commissioner for Economic Development under former governor Godswill Akpabio, where he also acted as Chief Economic Adviser.

During his time in government, he chaired several strategic committees and contributed to economic policy development in the state.

A senior university official described the appointment as “well deserved,” noting that Ekong combines academic depth with administrative experience.

“He understands the system and has the capacity to drive reforms,” the source said.

With decades of experience spanning teaching, research, and governance, Ekong is expected to bring a pragmatic leadership style to the university.