The University of Calabar was established on October 25, 1975, as one of the seven new universities set up by the Federal Military Government of Nigeria. The university grew out of the Calabar Campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, which had been functioning since the 1973/74 academic session. Initially, the university had 154 students and a small staff, but it quickly expanded to become a full-fledged institution.

The university began academic work in October 1976 with three faculties: Arts, Science, and Social Sciences. The initial enrollment was 977 students, including 406 who were transferred from the University of Nigeria. Over the years, the university has expanded to include new faculties, including Education, Medicine, Law, and Agriculture. Today, the university is a thriving institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence.

The University of Calabar has a unique approach to education, emphasizing character development alongside academic achievement. The university was the first in Nigeria to establish an annual Pro-Chancellor's Prize for the Best Behaved Student of the Graduating Class. This focus on character development reflects the university's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates who are equipped to make a positive impact in society.

The university has a diverse student population, with students from all over Nigeria and neighboring countries. The university's location in Calabar, a city with a rich cultural heritage, provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with the local community and learn about the region's history and culture. The university's Department of Theatre Arts is particularly notable, having established a reputation for excellence in Nigeria and abroad.

Overall, the University of Calabar has come a long way since its establishment in 1975. From its humble beginnings as a small campus of the University of Nigeria, the university has grown into a thriving institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and character development. As the university continues to evolve and expand, it remains committed to its core values of academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.