Chidimma Uchegbu, Abuja
Federal Ministry of Education has read the riot act to Pro-Chancellors and members of Governing Councils of federal tertiary institutions, reminding them of the need to constantly function effectively within the stipulated limits.
The warning followed the recent experience in some tertiary institutions particularly Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Federal University of Health Science, Otukpo, Benue State and others, which led to the dissolution of the Governing Council by President Bola Tinubu.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who addressed a meeting of Pro-Chancellors in Abuja, yesterday, reminded the Pro-Chancellors and members of the governing councils that their responsibilities are to provide strategic oversight, ensure policy implementation and serve as a bridge between the universities and external stakeholders.
“You are also charged with safeguarding the autonomy of the institutions while maintaining accountability in accordance with the laws that establish and govern them. Please be reminded that your role is not to interfere in the day-to-day running of the universities, which is in the purview of the vice chancellors, but you are representatives of the president and the ministry with the mandate to provide robust supervision and oversight to ensure these institutions are run properly according to the law.
“As leaders entrusted with the governance of our federal universities, your roles are pivotal to the growth, stability, and excellence of these institutions. The federal universities, as centres of knowledge and innovation, remain indispensable to the advancement of our nation. Their ability to deliver on their mandate depends not only on academic and administrative leadership, but also on effective governance underpinned by strict adherence to the laws, rules, and regulations that guide their operations.”
He told the pro-chancellors that the meeting is an opportunity to reflect on the critical role of governing boards, particularly pro-chancellors and their councils, in ensuring that the universities meet their goals in an atmosphere of stability and progress.
He referenced recent conflicts in some institutions between the VCs and Governing Councils, which often stemmed from misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the roles and limits of governing councils, management, and other stakeholders.
“These conflicts have, at times, disrupted the smooth functioning of our institutions, tarnished their reputations, and affected the morale of staff and students alike. Sadly, we have had to intervene to avoid any crises that would have led to the breakdown of law and order.
“Let me emphasise that governance must be guided at all times by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, relevant statutes, and conventions. It is imperative that pro-chancellors, as the custodians of good governance, act with fairness, transparency, and a commitment to due process.
“Similarly, councils must avoid overreach and focus on their strategic responsibilities without encroaching on operational management, while management must accord maximum respect and ensure obedience to lawful directives from the councils.”
The minister, at the meeting, announced that N47 billion has been earmarked to support universities of agriculture and medical schools across the country.
Specifically, while Universities of Agriculture will receive N30 billion with each institution getting N1 billion to establish mechanised farms, 18 medical schools will receive N17 billion to train healthcare professionals, including medical doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurses.
