Federal Government Reshuffles Leadership Across Nigerian Universities: Key Appointments and Structural Changes Announced
In a bid to improve governance and accountability, the Federal Government of Nigeria has approved major restructuring of leadership across federal universities. This reshuffle involves the dissolution and appointment of new governing councils and key officials in various institutions. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and what they mean for Nigerian higher education.
Key Changes at Nigerian Universities
The Nigerian government has undertaken a sweeping overhaul of leadership in several of the country’s most prominent federal universities, reshaping their governing councils and appointing new officials. These changes aim to enhance transparency, governance, and the overall management of Nigerian universities, ensuring they are better positioned to meet the evolving educational needs of the country.
University of Abuja (Now Yakubu Gowon University)
- Governing Council Restructured: The University of Abuja has undergone a complete dissolution of both its internal and external governing councils. This is part of the broader reform to strengthen leadership across the institution.
- New Leadership Appointments:
- Senator Lanre Tejuoso has been appointed as the new Pro-Chancellor of the University, transitioning from his previous role at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
- Prof. Lar Patricia Manko takes over as Acting Vice-Chancellor for a six-month term. However, she is not eligible for the permanent Vice-Chancellor position.
- Prof. Maikudi has been removed from his position as Vice-Chancellor.
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Leadership Changes:
- Engr. Akin Ojo is reassigned as Pro-Chancellor of UNN, moving from his role at the Federal University of Lokoja.
- Gen. Ike Nwachukwu shifts from UNN to the University of Uyo as the new Pro-Chancellor.
- Prof. Oguejiofu T. Ujam has been appointed as Acting Vice-Chancellor for six months, and he too is ineligible for the permanent role.
- End of Tenure:
- The tenure of the current Acting Vice-Chancellor at UNN will end on February 14, 2025, and will not be renewed.
Other Key Appointments Across Nigeria’s Federal Universities
- Alvan Ikoku University of Education: Senator Sani Stores appointed as the new Pro-Chancellor.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka: Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi is now the Pro-Chancellor.
- Federal University of Lokoja: Prof. Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi has been appointed as the new Pro-Chancellor.
The Federal Government’s Commitment to Improving Governance in Universities
The Nigerian government has expressed its commitment to promoting better leadership, governance, and transparency in its higher education institutions. By restructuring the governing councils and appointing new leadership, the government hopes to tackle long-standing issues and improve management at universities across the country. These changes are part of an ongoing effort to strengthen tertiary education and ensure universities can deliver quality education and research that meet national and global standards.
The Federal Government’s reshuffling of university leadership is part of a broader plan to revitalize the education sector in Nigeria. As these changes take effect, stakeholders are hopeful that these new appointments will lead to improved academic standards and better university management.
What Does This Mean for Students and the Future of Nigerian Universities?
For Nigerian students and their families, these leadership changes may signal a new era in university governance. The hope is that improved management will foster an environment conducive to learning, growth, and innovation, ultimately benefiting the nation’s educational landscape.
As universities navigate these leadership transitions, students and staff alike will be closely watching for signs of progress and change.
You may also like to read: Minister of Education Appoints Professor Onyeka Chijioke as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University
