The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Zana Akpagu has pledged to strengthen the relationship between the institution and the Cross River State House of Assembly. Prof. Akpagu made the pledge when the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly led other legislators on a courtesy call on him in his office He said for the remaining part of his tenure as the University helmsman, he would do everything humanly possible to strengthen the relationship between the institution and the State Assembly, which he believed, would be of mutual benefit. The Vice Chancellor who said the visit is of great significance to the institution added that it would help in renewing the synergy between the institution and the State Assembly. According to him, ‘’ This is the first time the speaker of the State Assembly is paying us a visit and that is why this visit is very significant to us. It also shows that the assembly holds us in high esteem. ‘’ This University is part of your constituency hence the need for a robust synergy. You are our representatives and that is the reason why our relationship should be strong’’ This came as he thanked the Speaker for gracing the occasion of his 60th birthday, saying that he is overwhelmed with joy for the show of love. Earlier, the Speaker of the State Assembly, Hon. Eteng Williams also underscored the need to further cement the relationship between the institution and the State Assembly. The Speaker who described the Vice Chancellor as a great achiever said the State Assembly is impressed with his unprecedented achievements in the institution. While pledging the unalloyed support of the State Assembly for the Akpagu-led administration, he said was looking forward to exploring many areas of partnership with the institution. In his words, ‘’ we are solidly behind you because we are products of this great institution. We are in love with what you are doing for the institution. ‘’ Our relationship must work and if you need us always call on us’’ The lawmaker who called on the Vice Chancellor to carry the State Assembly along in the scheme of things said the assembly would not do anything that will undermine the already blossoming relationship.