UNICAL Appoints Senator Dr. Stephen A. Odey as Professor of Industrial Sociology in Recognition of Stellar Academic, Legal, and Public Service Contributions
By Akahi News Editorial Team
In a decision steeped in profound respect and recognition of an extraordinary journey of intellectual brilliance and public service, the Governing Council and Senate of the prestigious University of Calabar (UNICAL) has promoted Dr. Stephen Adi Odey to the exalted rank of Professor. This milestone not only signifies the university’s endorsement of his rigorous academic credentials and scholarly works, but also celebrates his lifelong dedication to knowledge, law, policy, and the Nigerian nation.
A Legacy of Humble Beginnings, Towering Achievements
Professor Stephen Odey’s life is a compelling narrative of triumph over circumstance — a shining testimony to the transformative power of education, self-discipline, and unwavering determination. Hailing from Uchu-Yache in Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State, his remarkable odyssey from humble roots to national recognition as a scholar, legislator, legal luminary, and commissioner paints a portrait of uncommon grit and purpose.
His academic sojourn commenced at the University of Calabar, where he earned a foundational Bachelor of Education (B.Ed Hons). But rather than resting on those laurels, he pushed further into uncharted territories of knowledge, acquiring a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B Hons) with a Second Class Upper division — a rare feat among his contemporaries. He deepened his academic portfolio with a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Industrial Sociology and an LL.M in Environmental Law, culminating in the unprecedented attainment of two doctorate degrees — one in Law and another in Industrial Sociology.
In addition, he obtained a Certificate of Proficiency in Computer Studies and was formally called to the Nigerian Bar (BL) after a successful stint at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, Abuja. Each of these qualifications was not just earned but conquered — testament to a mind fortified by resilience and a spirit propelled by an insatiable hunger for knowledge.
Academic Trailblazer and Dedicated Educator
Professor Odey began his academic career at the University of Calabar in 2010, where he became a pivotal figure in the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, rising to the rank of Associate Professor. In this role, he supervised countless postgraduate theses, including numerous PhDs, and served as Coordinator for Research and Linkages, facilitating institutional collaborations and pioneering scholarly exchange.
His academic footprint is immense. He has published extensively in prestigious journals across Nigeria and abroad, and his works span multiple disciplines — from Sociology, Education, and Labour Policy to Environmental Law. He has authored books, journal articles, conference papers, and technical reports that are widely cited in both academic and policy circles.
In further testament to his scholastic influence, Professor Odey is also an Editor of the International Journal of Industrial Relations and the African Journal of Arbitration and Conflict Resolution, among others.
A Luminary in Legal Practice and Legislative Service
Beyond academia, Professor Odey is a seasoned legal practitioner, serving as the Principal Partner at Dr. Stephen A. Odey and Associates, a reputable law firm that has operated since 2012. As a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, he combines intellectual depth with legal dexterity, representing clients and offering legal consultancy across a wide spectrum of issues.
His foray into national service reached a pinnacle in 2020 when he became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Cross River North Senatorial District in the 9th Assembly. Within this brief but impactful tenure, he left an indelible mark — sponsoring five transformative bills, including the Establishment Bill for the Institute of Information and Communications Technology in Ogoja, which was passed on 7th July 2021. He also sponsored two major motions, participating actively in nine crucial Senate Committees, covering areas such as Education, Marine Transport, Judiciary, Human Rights, Environment, and Anti-Corruption.
Public Leadership and Service to the State
A firm believer in foundational education and public development, Professor Odey also served as the Executive Chairman/CEO of the Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and Acting Managing Director/CEO of the Cross River State Water Board Limited (CRSWBL). His leadership in these roles helped streamline public service delivery and improve educational access for thousands of young Cross Riverians.
Currently, he holds the office of Commissioner for Education in Cross River State, serving under Governor Senator (Apostle) Prince Bassey Edet Otu. In this position, he continues to impact policy and practice across the education sector, driving innovation, teacher training, and infrastructural development.
Honours, Affiliations, and Professional Contributions
A man of many parts, Professor Odey holds fellowships and memberships in over ten national and international professional bodies, including:
- Fellow, Nigerian Anthropological and Sociological Practitioners Association (NASA)
- Fellow, Chartered Institute of Corporate Administration (CICA)
- Fellow, Centre for African American Research Studies (CAARS)
- Fellow, Global Africa Society for Education Transformation & Internationalisation (GASETI)
- Fellow, The Institute of Universal Harmony (TIFUH)
- Fellow, Institute of Management Consultants (IMC)
He is also a Member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), International Sociological Association (ISA), European Sociological Association (ESA), Association of Black Sociologists (ABS) USA, Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), and Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). Additionally, he holds Associate Memberships with the Chartered Institute of Mediation and Conciliation and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management and Administration.
His engagements in international conferences have not only brought global attention to Nigerian academic excellence but have also established him as a credible voice in conversations around sociology, legal reform, and environmental justice.
A Symbol of Hope and Excellence
In recognising Professor Stephen A. Odey with the rank of Professor of Industrial Sociology, the University of Calabar affirms not just his qualifications but the profound impact of his scholarship, leadership, and vision. His elevation is both an academic endorsement and a moral commendation, symbolising the University’s faith in his capacity to continue inspiring generations.
From rural Yache in Yala LGA to the chambers of the Nigerian Senate, from lecture halls to courtrooms, from policy think tanks to grassroots classrooms — Professor Odey’s life is a luminous beacon for young Nigerians, proving that one’s background does not limit one’s horizon.
The story of Senator Professor Stephen A. Odey is not merely one of titles and accolades. It is a testament to the virtues of perseverance, self-discipline, visionary leadership, and transformative service. His academic and public life forms a living curriculum — an enduring syllabus on how to rise by lifting others, how to lead by learning, and how to serve by sacrificing.
As he takes on this new scholarly rank, the nation, the university community, and the global academic fraternity salute him.
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