Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu has charged the newly appointed Governing Council Chairmen of the universities to rebuild confidence and integrity in the university system.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Arch. sonny Echono, while inaugurating the Chairmen of the Governing Councils, emphasized that one of the challenges the Governing Councils should tackle is in respect of the appointment of principal officers for the institution.
The inauguration ceremony was at the Auditorium of the National Universities Commission, Abuja on Monday.
He advised members to steer clear of undue external influences in the process of such appointments and ensure that proper attention and priority is accorded to relevant university laws and government guidelines.
Adamu also admonished that transparency, probity and due process must be followed in the selection and appointment processes to ensure the emergence of the best candidates for the positions of principal officers.
According to the Minister “We have seen deviations in the recent past in this regard fuelled by growing interest, external influences, including from political leaders, in the appointment of principal officials in our universities.”
Malam Adamu urged Chief John Oyegun, who is the Chairman, Governing Council of University of Ibadan, alongside other Chairmen of Councils, to ensure stability, continuity and rebuild confidence and integrity in their various universities.
“As you are all aware, unnecessary conflicts can affect the smooth running of any institution. Clash of interests, values, actions or directions often ignite conflicts between Management and Governing Councils of tertiary institutions.
“The Ministry will not hesitate in recommending the dissolution of any Governing Council that is engulfed in persistent, unwarranted or self-inflicted crises.”
Oyegun, who spoke on behalf of other members of the five Governing Councils, said they would put in their best to reinvigorate the university system in Nigeria.
Members of the newly inaugurated Council for the universities include:
Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Chairman (South-South); Dr. Masud Kazaure, mni (North West); Comrade Abba Yaro (North Central);
Senator Abubakar Maikafi (North East); and
Hon. Emeka Nwogbo (South East)
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