President Tinubu Approves New Governing Councils for Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria
In a significant move to strengthen the governance and academic excellence of Nigeria’s federal universities and colleges of education, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new governing councils. This step is aimed at bolstering the quality of education and fostering a more robust academic environment across the nation’s higher education landscape.
According to the official statement released by the government, the appointments include a diverse group of qualified individuals, each bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to their respective institutions. These new leaders are expected to implement strategic initiatives that will improve educational standards and enhance the overall learning experience for students.
Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko
Among the notable appointments, Temi Harriman has been designated as the Chairman of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, located in Delta State. Harriman’s leadership will be complemented by the expertise of Adeola Adeogun, Benedict Aguele, Freeman Kasa, and Babangida Alhassan Abdullahi, who have been appointed as members. This team is set to navigate the university towards greater achievements and academic distinction.
Nigerian University of Science and Technology, Abuja
Rabe Mudi Bala has been appointed as the Chairman of the Nigerian University of Science and Technology, Abuja. Accompanying him on the council are Mr. Akinola Fagbemi, Rakiatou Bagnou, Alwel Egwurugu, and Femi Osabinu. Together, they are tasked with elevating the university’s status within the scientific community and ensuring it becomes a beacon of innovation and research excellence.
Federal University of Agriculture, Bassam-Biri, Bayelsa
Bram Baifa takes the helm as Chairman of the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassam-Biri, in Bayelsa State. He will be working alongside Richard Odigbo, Yomi Johnson, Fatima Owuna, and Christy Akpehuan Omoruyi. Their collective goal is to enhance agricultural education and research, fostering advancements that will benefit the agricultural sector and the country at large.
Federal University of Health Sciences, Kwale
Ahmadu Barau Banye Salisu has been named the Chairman of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State. He is joined by Aragbaye Oluwatosin Gbolagunte, Talba Bauchi, Akaninodo Kehinde Adekunle, and Chibuike Ikenga. Their mission is to drive the institution towards becoming a center of excellence in medical education and health sciences, addressing healthcare challenges within and beyond Nigeria.
Federal University of Medical Sciences, Katsina
Habib Mohammed Ibrahim will lead the Federal University of Medical Sciences, Katsina State as Chairman. The council members include Yau Aisha Abdulkadir, Shehu Kaka, Ibrahim Umar Abbah, and Isijola Rasaki. They are charged with developing medical education standards that will produce competent healthcare professionals to meet the demands of the nation’s healthcare system.
Other Key Appointments
Several other key appointments have also been made to various federal institutions:
- Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, Adamawa State: Rukayyatu Abdulkareem Gurin as Chairman, with Peter Tanko Dogara, Amina Ibrahim Ndala, Owolabi Shamsideen Oseni, and Olufemi Lawson as members.
- Admiralty University, Ibusa, Delta State: Yusuf Mohammed as Chairman, with Sani Ndanusa, Abdul Oroh, Mary Okaba Agbo, and Omasan Agbajoh as members.
- Nigerian French Language Village, Badagry, Lagos: Labiru Musa Kafur as Chairman, with Ibitoye Victor Philips, Bamgbose S., Musa Ayas, and Ogenyi Okpokwu Emmanuel as members.
- National Institute of Nigerian Languages, Aba, Abia State: Victor O. Ukaogo as Chairman, with Anjare Samuel, David Turuka Ismaila, Adimchinaka Onwukwe, and Princess Ify Ugo Okoye as members.
- Nigerian Army University, Biu, Borno State: Awal Bawa Morike as Chairman, with Mohammed Bashir Umar, Monday Nanza, Mohammed Alhaji Audu, and Sheriff Abdullahi as members.
- Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta, Ogun State: Usman Mohammed Shanawa as Chairman, with Kabiru Yahaya, Chinenye Love Moses, Uyiosasere Ekhosuehi, and Joshua Oludare Adewale as members.
- Nigeria Arabic Language Village, Gamboru Ngala, Borno State: Ahmed Wambai as Chairman, with Gazali Hamza Suleiman, Imam Alfa Rahaman, Isah Kwayami, and Mohammed Ize Mamman as members.
- National Mathematical Centre, Sheda, Kwali, FCT: Edna Njoku as Chairman, with Kovie Andrew Epetutu, Oyinkasola Okewoye, Ibrahim Musa, and Sarah Tukura as members.
President Tinubu has expressed confidence in the newly appointed council members, urging them to bring their extensive experience and dedication to bear in their new roles. He emphasized the importance of their tasks, stressing that their efforts would be critical to lifting the standard of tertiary education in Nigeria.
In his statement, President Tinubu highlighted that the future of Nigeria hinges on the quality of education provided to its citizens. He underscored the need for a top-tier education system to cultivate the minds of the next generation, preparing them to tackle the complex challenges of the modern world. By appointing these individuals to the governing councils, the President aims to create a more cohesive and effective governance structure within these institutions.
As the newly appointed leaders assume their positions, they are expected to prioritize key areas such as academic quality, infrastructure development, faculty recruitment, student welfare, and research innovation. These elements are deemed crucial for the sustainability and growth of Nigeria's educational sector. The councils are also expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and international bodies, to secure funding and support for their respective institutions.
Moreover, the appointees are encouraged to foster an environment of accountability and transparency within the universities and colleges. Implementing best practices in governance and management will help in achieving the high standards that President Tinubu envisions. By focusing on performance metrics and continuous improvement, these institutions can achieve better educational outcomes and contribute significantly to national development.
As the educational landscape in Nigeria undergoes transformation under these new appointments, there is a sense of optimism among students, faculty, and educational stakeholders. Many believe that this new wave of leadership will bring about the necessary changes to elevate the standard of education in the country.
The success of this initiative will largely depend on the cooperation and commitment of all involved parties. With a shared vision and a collective effort, Nigeria can look forward to a bright future for its tertiary education system, ultimately leading to a more educated and empowered populace capable of driving the nation's progress.
