The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has expressed concerns over the alleged mismanagement of funds and weaknesses in governance in some Nigerian universities. ASUU President, Prof. Chris Pinuwa, raised these concerns at the unveiling of the 2025 agreement between the Federal Government and the union in Abuja. He warned that the situation is undermining accountability, stability, and academic standards in the system.
According to Pinuwa, weak governance structures have hindered the effective utilisation of resources in some institutions. Despite the recognition of university autonomy in principle and law, its practical implementation remains weak, leading to external interference in university administration. The arbitrary dissolution of governing councils and interference in the appointment of vice-chancellors have become recurring challenges, undermining meritocracy and eroding institutional stability.
Pinuwa also noted that these interventions have often resulted in conflicts, litigation, and staff polarisation within universities, disrupting academic activities and effective management. He expressed concerns over the growing trend of prolonged acting vice-chancellorship in universities, calling for greater scrutiny of governing councils and principal officers to safeguard institutional integrity.
The ASUU president emphasized the importance of adequate research funding for the relevance and global competitiveness of Nigerian universities. He noted that research and development funding is a key component of the 2025 re-negotiated agreement with the federal government. The agreement includes a proposal to allocate at least one per cent of the country’s GDP to research, innovation, and development through the National Research Council Bill, which is expected to be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration.
Pinuwa also criticized promotion practices in some newly-established federal universities of education, alleging that due process and established standards for professorial appointments are being compromised. He called on vice-chancellors of the affected institutions to review such promotions to protect the integrity of the university system.
The concerns raised by ASUU highlight the need for improved governance and management in Nigerian universities. The implementation of the 2025 agreement and the proposed National Research Council Bill are expected to address some of these challenges and promote academic excellence in the country’s higher education system. The union’s efforts to safeguard institutional integrity and promote meritocracy are crucial for the development of Nigerian universities and the country’s overall education sector.
