Abuja, Nigeria – May 19, 2024: In a move likely to ease tensions with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Federal Government of Nigeria has finally constituted governing councils for 111 federal tertiary institutions across the country. This announcement, made on Saturday by the Federal Ministry of Education, comes after months of delay and a brewing threat of another nationwide strike by ASUU.
The dissolution of the previous governing councils in June 2023 by President Bola Tinubu sparked controversy. ASUU argued the move was “illegal” and hindered decision-making processes within the universities. The lack of governing councils also meant universities had to seek ministerial approval for functions previously overseen by the boards. This additional bureaucratic hurdle was seen by many as a potential stifling of university autonomy.
Diverse Representation in New Councils
The newly constituted councils include representatives from diverse backgrounds, encompassing technocrats, politicians, and traditional rulers. The list, released by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, features prominent figures like former Senator Joy Emordi, legal luminary Yusuf Ali (SAN), and Senator Udoma Udoma as pro-chancellors and chairmen for some institutions.
The inauguration and retreat for the new governing council members will be held on Thursday and Friday, May 30th and 31st, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) headquarters in Abuja. This swift action by the government suggests a desire to address ASUU’s concerns and pave the way for a more harmonious relationship between the union and the federal government.
ASUU’s Reaction and Remaining Concerns
While the announcement of the governing councils is a positive step, ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, remains cautious. The union had previously demanded the reinstatement of the dissolved councils, arguing they were legally constituted bodies. Osodeke stated, “We are still studying the details of the new composition. We will see if it reflects the principles of university autonomy and federal character.”
Beyond the immediate issue of governing councils, ASUU has a long list of grievances, including demands for improved funding for universities, better working conditions for lecturers, and a review of the salary structure within the academic sector. The recent 35% salary increase for professors and 25% for other academics has been met with criticism by ASUU, who argue it falls short of their expectations.
Impact on Higher Education
The appointment of governing councils marks a crucial step towards restoring normalcy in the Nigerian university system. These councils play a vital role in university governance, overseeing issues like financial management, strategic planning, and the appointment of vice-chancellors and other key officials. Their absence has created a leadership vacuum and hampered decision-making within the institutions.
However, the underlying issues that led to the ASUU crisis remain unresolved. The chronic underfunding of universities, coupled with concerns about academic freedom and lecturer welfare, are simmering tensions that could erupt again if not addressed.
What Lies Ahead?
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the appointment of new governing councils marks a turning point or simply a pause in the ongoing saga between the Federal Government and ASUU. The inauguration ceremony and any subsequent pronouncements by the new councils will be closely watched by stakeholders in the education sector.
Furthermore, ASUU’s reaction to the newly constituted councils and their stance on the current salary offer will determine the likelihood of renewed industrial action. A successful resolution of this dispute is critical for ensuring stability in the Nigerian university system and fostering an environment conducive to quality education and research.
A Call for Dialogue and Compromise
As the dust settles on this latest development, it is imperative that both the Federal Government and ASUU engage in meaningful dialogue to address the long-standing issues plaguing the university system. The appointment of governing councils should be seen as an opportunity to reset the relationship and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
This will require compromise and flexibility from both sides. The government must demonstrate a genuine commitment to funding education and addressing the welfare concerns of lecturers. ASUU, on the other hand, must be open to negotiation and realistic in its demands, recognizing the economic realities of the country.
Only through sustained, good-faith dialogue can Nigeria hope to build a university system that is robust, autonomous, and capable of producing the high-caliber graduates needed to drive the country’s development. The alternative – a cycle of strikes and disruptions – benefits no one and threatens to undermine the very future of Nigeria.
