In a significant move aimed at enhancing the governance and administration of federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, the Federal Government has announced the reconstitution of governing councils and boards for 111 tertiary institutions nationwide.
Following earlier controversies over alleged lopsidedness in the initial list of appointees, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) issued a revised list on Friday. The decision comes after consultations with various stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
In a statement released by the OSGF, it was highlighted that the reconstitution is geared towards ensuring effective management and accountability within Nigerian tertiary institutions. According to the statement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the appointments to facilitate robust governance across the institutions.
“We are committed to fostering a conducive environment for learning and development within our universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education,” the statement read.
Notable appointments include Chief Bisi Akande, former Governor of Osun State and pioneer chairman of the All Progressives Congress, who will chair the Governing Council of the University of Ibadan in Oyo State. Additionally, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Wole Olanipekun will oversee the council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), while former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda assumes a similar role at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
Senator Joy Emordi has been appointed to chair the council of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education in Owerri, Imo State, further diversifying the leadership of these institutions.
The composition of the councils reflects a blend of experience and expertise across various sectors, aiming to steer Nigeria’s educational institutions towards greater excellence and efficiency.
“We believe these appointments will contribute significantly to the advancement of education in Nigeria, aligning with our vision for transformative leadership in tertiary education,” the statement concluded.
The new councils comprise five members each for 51 universities, 35 polytechnics, and 22 colleges of education, marking a comprehensive effort by the government to strengthen governance structures across the tertiary education sector.
