Concerns have emerged over alleged financial mismanagement and governance gaps in some Nigerian universities, with experts warning that these issues could undermine accountability, institutional stability and academic standards across the higher education system.
During the unveiling of the 2025 Agreement between the Federal Government and university stakeholders in Abuja, President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Professor Chris Pinuwa, highlighted how weak governance structures in certain institutions have hindered the effective use of available resources.
While university autonomy is recognized in principle and partly enshrined in law, its implementation remains inconsistent. Pinuwa pointed to recurring interference in university administration, including the arbitrary dissolution of governing councils and undue influence over vice-chancellor appointments, which destabilizes institutions and disrupts merit-based processes. Such interventions often lead to disputes, legal battles, staff division, and interruptions to academic activities.
Pinuwa also raised concerns about the growing trend of prolonged acting vice-chancellorships, calling for closer oversight of governing councils and principal officers to preserve institutional integrity.
On research funding, he emphasized its importance in ensuring the relevance and global competitiveness of Nigerian universities. He welcomed the inclusion of research and development funding in the 2025 renegotiated agreement with the Federal Government.
“The National Research Council Bill, which will be forwarded to the National Assembly, proposes at least one per cent of GDP as dedicated funding for research, innovation, and development. It is crucial that lawmakers act promptly to pass this bill”, Pinuwa said.
He further criticized promotion practices in some newly upgraded federal universities of education, alleging that established academic standards for professorial appointments have been compromised. Pinuwa warned that upgrading colleges of education should not come at the expense of academic quality and urged vice-chancellors to review such promotions immediately to protect the credibility and integrity of the university system.
About the Author
