By Jimitota Onoyume

Jerome Utomi , a media professional and postgraduate student of Mass Communication at Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, , has congratulated Dr Eric Aondover on his recent elevation to the rank of Associate Professor, hailing the achievement as “a testament to academic excellence, dedication to scholarship and commitment to the advancement of knowledge.”

A congratulatory statement from Utomi reads “Dr Aondover’s elevation is a significant milestone worthy of celebration, adding that the recognition reflected the importance of sustained intellectual engagement, research, teaching and service to the academic community.

“He noted that the promotion was particularly commendable given Dr Aondover’s responsibilities as Acting Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at Caleb University, where he contributes to academic leadership and the training of future media professionals.

“According to Utomi, the achievement should inspire students, emerging scholars and young academics to remain committed to excellence, perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.

“I am delighted to congratulate Dr Eric Aondover on his well-deserved elevation to the rank of Associate Professor. This achievement is a source of pride not only to him and his immediate family but also to Caleb University and the wider academic community,” Utomi said.

“He added that the promotion represented more than the attainment of a higher academic rank, noting that it acknowledged the dedication, discipline and intellectual contributions required to advance scholarship and strengthen higher education.

“Utomi further observed that the communication and media landscape was undergoing significant transformation driven by digital technology, artificial intelligence, changing audience behaviour and the increasing demand for credible information.

“He stressed that these developments had made the contributions of communication scholars more important than ever, particularly in advancing research, strengthening professional standards and preparing students to navigate the complexities of contemporary journalism and media practice.

“In today’s rapidly evolving media environment, the role of scholars in journalism and Mass Communication cannot be overstated. We need academics who can bridge the gap between theory and practice, promote critical thinking and equip students with the knowledge and professional values required to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

“Utomi expressed confidence that Dr Aondover’s elevation would further strengthen his capacity to contribute to teaching, research, mentorship and the development of journalism and media studies.

“He also highlighted the importance of academic leadership in building institutions that promote innovation, intellectual curiosity and the production of knowledge capable of addressing contemporary societal challenges.

“According to him, universities remain vital to national development because they produce the human capital, research findings and critical perspectives needed to advance social and economic progress.
He therefore commended Caleb University for fostering an academic environment that recognises achievement and encourages the continuous pursuit of excellence.

“Utomi urged students and aspiring academics to draw inspiration from Dr Aondover’s accomplishment, emphasising that meaningful academic advancement requires consistency, intellectual discipline, productive research and a commitment to making lasting contributions to one’s field.

“He said the elevation should also serve as encouragement to other lecturers and researchers to remain focused on their academic and professional responsibilities while contributing to the growth of their respective disciplines.

“Dr Aondover’s achievement sends a powerful message to the younger generation that hard work, commitment to scholarship and dedication to professional development remain essential ingredients for academic progress,” Utomi stated.

“He concluded by wishing the newly elevated Associate Professor greater accomplishments in his academic career, expressing the hope that his new position would create further opportunities for impactful research, effective mentorship and significant contributions to Caleb University and the wider communication profession.

“Once again, I congratulate Associate Professor Eric Aondover on this remarkable achievement. May this new chapter of his academic journey bring greater accomplishments, expanded opportunities and enduring contributions to scholarship and society “.