The Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) has lauded the Federal Government’s decision to exclude universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). Secretary-General of the committee, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, commended this move during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, coinciding with a One-Day Workshop for Advancement and Alumni Officers of Nigerian Universities.

The approval for this removal was granted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa. According to Mr. Ochefu, this development will pave the way for a new university system. He emphasized that universities in other parts of the world do not solely rely on government funding. Instead, they receive a lump sum grant supplemented by resources garnered elsewhere for their operations.

Mr. Ochefu stressed that the transition to this new system cannot happen instantly, likening it to weaning a baby, necessitating a gradual progress. He underscored that autonomy is enshrined in the laws establishing universities, with the government’s role being to co-fund universities through grants, support for student tuition, and the promotion of endowments – in line with global practices.

Discussing the challenges faced by Nigerian universities, the secretary-general highlighted the dynamic nature of the university system. He elucidated that the flexibility required, such as hiring lecturers for specific courses or sessions, is incompatible with the rigid structure of IPPIS. The CVCNU had earlier conveyed this stance during an interface with the Minister of Education in August. Mr. Ochefu commended the minister’s understanding of the operational dynamics, emphasizing that the bureaucratic limitations imposed by IPPIS are incongruent with the agility demanded by the university system.

Notably, the introduction of IPPIS in 2006 aimed to enhance the efficient storage of personnel records. Originally covering all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) drawing personnel costs from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, it sparked resistance from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The union adamantly opposed the entrenchment of IPPIS for the payment of university lecturers’ entitlements, leading to prolonged standoffs with the federal government.

By removing universities from IPPIS, the government has signaled its commitment to respecting and adapting to the nuances of the Nigerian university system. Such a monumental decision is poised to usher in a new era of financial autonomy for Nigerian universities, aligning with global best practices. As this transition unfolds, the collaborative effort between the government, university stakeholders, and the VCs committee will be instrumental in shaping a vibrant and sustainable higher education landscape in Nigeria.