The chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed concerns about the growing influence of godfatherism within the Nigerian university system during an event held in Abuja commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU).
Osodeke emphasized the need for universities to return to a state of autonomy similar to that enjoyed during the 1960s and 1970s when there was minimal government interference. He stressed that universities should operate based on merit and academic excellence rather than being influenced by connections or godfatherism.
The ASUU chairman highlighted the evolving nature of university lecturers across generations. He noted that the initial generations were characterized by highly qualified individuals who chose academic careers over other opportunities, even when they could have pursued more lucrative paths such as banking.
In contrast, the later generations included individuals with lower qualifications, including third-class degrees and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), who entered the university system through patronage and godfatherism. Osodeke expressed concern that these trends were gradually dominating the academic landscape as earlier generations of lecturers retired.
Osodeke criticized the current state of university appointments, citing bureaucratic obstacles that vice-chancellors must navigate to hire lecturers and secure funding. He called for a return to a more streamlined and merit-based system reminiscent of past decades when universities followed a more transparent and competitive hiring process.
Additionally, Osodeke raised concerns about the shortage of lecturers and the inadequacy of funding within the education system. He pointed out that Nigeria’s education budget fell significantly below the recommended 12 percent of total national expenditure for African nations.
The Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, acknowledged the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of academic staff, including salary increases and revitalization efforts for tertiary institutions. He also mentioned plans to provide universities with gas-powered facilities for energy needs through public-private partnerships (PPP). A committee has been established to guide education policies, develop a roadmap for the sector’s advancement, and provide key performance indicators (KPIs) and timelines.
Mamman further noted that measures were being taken to enhance security in schools, and the government aimed to support both public and private universities across the country.
