The recent leadership overhaul at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has reignited optimism about transparency and accountability in the selection of Vice Chancellors across Nigerian universities.
A distinguished alumnus of UNN, Professor Barnabas Iliya lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive intervention, describing it as a bold step towards restoring integrity in the administration of tertiary institutions.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja yesterday, Prof. Iliya noted that the move reflects the President’s commitment to his Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at revitalizing key sectors, including education.
“The reshuffling of university leadership signals that the Federal Government is serious about transforming Nigerian universities into true centers of learning and excellence,” Prof. Iliya said.
President Tinubu’s sweeping changes, announced last Thursday, affected several federal institutions, including UNN, Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja, and the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
According to a statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President dissolved the governing council of Yakubu Gowon University and appointed Professor Lar Patricia Manko as Acting Vice Chancellor, replacing Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi.
At UNN, Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu was relieved of his duties as Acting Vice Chancellor, with Professor Oguejiofo T. Ujam stepping in to lead the institution for the next six months.
Prof. Iliya praised the appointment of Prof. Ujam, describing him as a seasoned academic and disciplinarian with a track record of excellence. “We, the alumni of UNN, are thrilled by this development. Prof. Ujam’s previous efforts to reform the School of General Studies were commendable, and his appointment as Acting Vice Chancellor is a clear indication that the President recognizes and values merit,” he stated.
Reflecting on the events leading up to the changes, Prof. Iliya recalled that alumni had recently raised concerns about irregularities in the Vice Chancellor recruitment process. “Just two weeks ago, we sounded the alarm about the need to protect the integrity of UNN’s leadership appointments. We called for caution to maintain the academic stability and harmony that the institution is known for. Our concerns were driven by the controversies that marred similar appointments at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and Yakubu Gowon University.”
Prof. Iliya commended President Tinubu for swiftly addressing these concerns, emphasizing that his actions prevented potential unrest within the institutions. “This is a listening administration. The President’s prompt response demonstrates his commitment to upholding the values of fairness and transparency in our educational system. We urge the new leaders to embrace this mandate and lead with integrity.”
Concluding his remarks, Prof. Iliya expressed confidence in UNN’s future under Prof. Ujam’s leadership. “We are optimistic that UNN will soar to greater heights, driven by a renewed focus on excellence in both character and learning. This intervention is not just about leadership—it’s about safeguarding the future of Nigerian education and ensuring that our universities remain beacons of knowledge and integrity.”
