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Category: Education

  • ASUP Ends Strike, Lecturers to Resume Work Monday

    ASUP Ends Strike, Lecturers to Resume Work Monday

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has called off its two-week strike after reaching an agreement with the Federal Government.

     The union announced that polytechnic lecturers nationwide would return to work on Monday, December 16, 2024.  

    The decision followed a meeting between ASUP leaders and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment on December 9, where a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed. 

    The agreement outlined steps to address unresolved issues that led to the strike, which began on December 2.  

    ASUP had initiated the strike as a warning against the government’s delay in implementing a previously agreed work plan.

     The union noted that the MoU includes a follow-up meeting scheduled for January 23, 2025, to evaluate progress on the agreement.  

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    Members have been instructed to resume work while the union’s National Executive Council monitors compliance with the deal.

    It is hoped that the Federal Government would keep to the terms of the MoU in order to forestall further resort to strike in the immediate future.

  • Senate amending UBEC Act for improved funding, others

    Senate amending UBEC Act for improved funding, others

    A bill to amend the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Act has successfully passed its second reading in the Nigerian Senate.

     The proposal, put forward by Senator Adamu Lawal Usman of Kaduna Central, seeks to bring changes to various sections of the Act.

    ALSO READ: FG Begins Payment of Delayed November Salaries

    Among the key changes are improved measures for early childhood education, clearer guidelines for appointing members of the commission, and stricter enforcement of regulations for implementation agencies.

    The bill also includes provisions to raise funding for education from two to five percent and ensure that intervention funds are directly allocated to local government education sectors. 

    With the second reading completed, the bill has been sent to the Senate Committee on Secondary and Basic Education for further review.

  • Tinubu Makes key Appointments in Education, Devp’t Agencies

    Tinubu Makes key Appointments in Education, Devp’t Agencies

    President Bola Tinubu has announced leadership changes in three key educational and development agencies likely to placate sectional interests.

    He has named new heads for the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), and New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD).

     Additionally, Fatima Umaru Shinkafi’s role as Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) has been renewed.

    Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, an expert in veterinary reproduction, will now lead the NUC.

    PLEASE READ: ASUU to FG: Scrapping Education Tax Will Ruin Tetfund, Public Universities

    Ribadu previously held leadership positions as vice-chancellor at two Nigerian universities. 

    Meanwhile, Prof. Salisu Shehu, known for his work in educational psychology, has been appointed to oversee the NERDC.

     His background includes founding the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and serving as vice-chancellor at Al-Istiqamah University.

    NEPAD’s new National Coordinator is Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri, a specialist in international diplomacy and public administration.

     His extensive experience in governance and legislative matters is expected to enhance the agency’s performance.

    In the mining sector, Shinkafi’s reappointment to the SMDF solidifies her role in advancing initiatives like the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative.

    A previous announcement of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani’s appointment to SMDF was withdrawn, citing no vacancy in the role.

    These appointments are seen as part of Tinubu’s efforts to position experienced professionals in key roles to drive the nation’s development.

  • Bauchi Varsity Workers Begin Indefinite Strike

    Bauchi Varsity Workers Begin Indefinite Strike

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in Bauchi has launched an indefinite strike to protest the university administration’s failure to fulfill prior agreements. 

    In a press statement following an emergency meeting held at the Yuli Campus on November 29, 2024, ASUU Chairperson Comrade Awwal Hussain Nuhu revealed that repeated attempts to resolve the issues through dialogue had failed. 

    READ ALSO: PDP CRUMBLES FURTHER AS FORMER MINISTER RESIGNS

    Despite efforts to engage both the university management and the government, the union found no willingness to address its grievances.

    As a result, the union decided to initiate a full and indefinite strike, which began at 12:00 PM on November 29. 

    This includes the suspension of all academic activities, including lectures, meetings, and any work related to the university’s academic operations, until further notice.

  • FG Shakes Up FUHSO Management, Sacks VC, Registrar

    FG Shakes Up FUHSO Management, Sacks VC, Registrar

     In a significant shake-up at the Federal University of Health Sciences (FUHSO) in Otukpo, Benue State, the Federal Ministry of Education has announced the removal of key officials following protracted power tussle.

    In a letter dated November 18, 2024, President Tinubu approved the immediate removal of Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.

     Additionally, Prof. Ediga B. Agbo and Mallam Aminu Abba have been removed from their positions as Acting Vice Chancellor and Registrar, respectively.

    As part of the restructuring, the Governing Council is now directed to elect one of its external members to serve as the Acting Chairman of the Council until a permanent appointment is made.

     Furthermore, the University Senate has been asked to nominate the most senior Deputy Vice Chancellor for approval as the Acting Vice Chancellor, with immediate effect. 

    Similarly, the Council is tasked with appointing the most senior Deputy Registrar as the Acting Registrar.

    The changes come as part of an ongoing effort to ensure the smooth operation and governance of the institution.

     The Ministry has expressed confidence that these adjustments will help stabilize the university and maintain its focus on academic excellence.

    Dr. Tunji Alausa, Honourable Minister of Education, has conveyed these directives to the Governing Council and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to the growth and success of the institution.

    The university community and stakeholders await further developments as these new appointments take effect.

  • UNIZIK Restores Prof. Ikechebelu as Acting Vice-Chancellor

    UNIZIK Restores Prof. Ikechebelu as Acting Vice-Chancellor

    Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka has reappointed Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu as its Acting Vice-Chancellor, effective immediately.

     This move follows the cancellation of Prof. Bernard Odoh’s appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor, which was ruled invalid. 

    The announcement was made by the university’s Director of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol, Njelita Louis, on Thursday. Prof. Ikechebelu is now tasked with overseeing the university’s administration. 

    In a related development, Mr. Victor Modebelu has been reinstated as Acting Registrar, taking over from Barr. Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike, whose appointment was also annulled due to irregularities. 

    The reinstatements come after the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Education, with approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

    All matters needing the Governing Council’s input will be forwarded to the Minister of Education until a new council is appointed. 

    The university has called on its community to support the new leadership as they continue to steer the institution’s academic and administrative affairs.

  • Tinubu Reshuffles University Leadership Over Alleged Irregularities

    Tinubu Reshuffles University Leadership Over Alleged Irregularities

    President Bola Tinubu has ordered a leadership overhaul at two federal universities following allegations of irregularities in appointments and governance.  

    At Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, the President removed Vice Chancellor Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike, and dissolved the institution’s Governing Council. 

    The council, chaired by Ambassador Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, was accused of appointing an underqualified vice chancellor without adhering to procedural guidelines. 

    Reports suggest that the council’s actions sparked tensions between the university’s Senate and its management.  

    Similarly, Tinubu dismissed Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State.

     Salami faced allegations of misconduct, including the unlawful suspension of the Vice Chancellor and threats directed at officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, despite warnings to reverse his actions.  

    The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining adherence to laws governing educational institutions, urging university councils to focus on fostering stability and upholding standards in their operations.

  • FUHSO Governing Council Opposes Perm Sec on Re-instatement of VC, Appointment of Acting Vice-Chancellor

    FUHSO Governing Council Opposes Perm Sec on Re-instatement of VC, Appointment of Acting Vice-Chancellor

    The Management of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), has issued a statement condemning the purported appointment of Prof. Stephen Obekpa Abah as Acting Vice-Chancellor.

    The Governing Council also opposed the action of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir S. Gwarzo, whereby he ordered the re-instatement of the suspended erstwhile Vice Chancellor, Prof Innocent Ujah.

    According to the statement, the appointment of Prof. Abah, circulated on social media on November 5, 2024, stems from an unauthorized and illegal meeting orchestrated by the suspended Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Innocent A. O. Ujah.

    The university clarified that the notice for the meeting was issued using the letterhead of the suspended Vice-Chancellor, bypassing the established protocols, specifically the role of the Registrar, who is responsible for issuing notices for Senate meetings.

     The Registrar, who is the official Secretary of the Senate under the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (Establishment) Act of 2022, was neither aware of, nor present at the meeting, which underscores its illegality.

    The statement also clarified that Prof. Ujah’s actions, including his attempt to forcefully enter the G.R.A, Otukpo Campus with armed personnel, were thwarted by coordinated security measures. 

    Despite being denied access to the campus, Prof. Ujah, it was reported, accompanied by armed individuals, managed to convene a small gathering at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital Otukpo, where the fraudulent meeting took place.

    This group later issued the false statement about the appointment Prof. Stephen Abah, alleged to be answering to a criminal case at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    The Governing Council affirmed that Prof. Innocent A.O. Ujah remains suspended from his position and as such, has no legal authority to summon Senate meetings.

    The Council further emphasized that Prof. Ediga Bede Agbo is the legally appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor and that his position remains intact.

    The Council condemned the actions of Prof. Ujah and his associates as a violation of university governance, which has caused unnecessary distress within the university community.

    They urged all staff, students, and members of the community to disregard any claims made by Prof. Abah and to continue their academic and administrative duties as usual.

    It would be recalled that following the suspension of Prof. Ujah, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir Gwarzo wrote a letter to counter the action.

    The Governing Council however, issued a rebuttal, insisting that Prof Ujah stands suspended and can not therefore preside over a senate meeting, talk less appoint his own successor.

    It is also contended that according to Section 2 (1)-(3) of the Universities Miscellaneous Act 2003:

    “(1) The Governing Council of a university shall be the supreme governing authority of the university and shall be responsible for the general direction and superintendence of the university.” As such, the Council contends that a letter by the Permanent Secretary, Education can not invalidate the decision of the Governing Council.

    “The directive from the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Education amounts to undue interference in the activities of the Council and an attempt to usurp the powers of the Council and emasculate it,” it was stated.

    “The permanent secretary has suggested that the former Vice-Chancellor should be reinstated to restore peace on the campus. It suggests that he knows of a threat to peace, which is not manifest since the campus has not only been peaceful but jubilant since the former Vice-Chancellor was suspended. The Permanent Secretary may need to be held accountable for any breach of peace,” it was contended in another statement.

    “The permanent secretary has failed to carry out a situation analysis of the university, so he is completely unaware of the loud jubilation that greeted the suspension of the former vice-chancellor,” it was concluded.

  • Stop the in-fighting at FUHSO

    Stop the in-fighting at FUHSO

    The tussle for the leadership of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), if left unchecked may torpedo the growth and development of the young institution that was established barely five years ago.

    It is on record that many opposed to the leadership style of the pioneer Vice Chancellor and others that are determined to minimize his role in influencing the choice of a successor, had locked horns in a fight culminating in the suspension of the Vice Chancellor on October 17, 2024, barley three weeks to the end of his tenure, today, November 6th, 2024.

    As at late Tuesday night, various narrations state that there are two Acting Vice Chancellors calling the shot in the school. First, there is Professor Agbo Ediga who was appointed on October 17, 2024 by the Governing Council after it suspended the out-going Vice Chancellor, Professor Innocent Ujah on the allegation of acts of insubordination and other offences.

    Even though a letter by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo and addressed to the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council ordered the reversal of the suspension of Professor Ujah, the Pro Chancellor insists that as the representative of the President of the Federal Republic, who is the Visitor and Chancellor of the University, the Permanent Secretary can not reverse or counter his decision.

    Armed with the reinstatement letter by the Permanent Secretary, the suspended Vice Chancellor Ujah, was reported to have stormed the university yesterday, November 5, and summoned a meeting of the senate which notice, Nigerian Anchor gathered was served on select members of the senate. Following this move, the Pro Chancellor was reported to have mobilised men of the Nigerian Police to seal off the venue. This was however, countered by a troupe of the Nigerian Army that was allegedly invited by the embattled Vice Chancellor.

    It is reported that another Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Stephen O. Abah has been announced by the outgoing Vice Chancellor.

    Nigerian Anchor sources reveal that a tense atmosphere now prevail on the university campus.

    We condemn this unbridled quest for power by all actors and call for cessation of hostilities without further ado.

    The university is a citadel of learning and a centre of excellence from where the larger society expects the best conduct at all times. Conducts such as the one unravelling at FUHSO is most shameful and a great embarrassment to the university community, especially the students who, all along had perceived these personalities as role models.

    Most affected by this despicable conduct of the characters engaged in this power tussle are the good people of the Idoma nation and the illustrious sons and daughters who laboured and fought to attract this unique Ivory Tower to be located at the heart of the Idoma nation. It is a no brainer emphasizing that this unfortunate incident presents grave reputational cost to the Idoma nation, seeing as most of the dramatis personae are Idoma who should have learnt not to launder their dirty linens in public.

    Finally, we call on authorities at the supervising Ministry of Education not to take sides with any of the warring factions but act as a principled arbiter and firmly order that parties sheath the sword and allow peace to reign by acting based on the rule of law and respect for constituted authority.

  • Federal Government Exits Tertiary Institutions from IPPIS, Shuts Down Platform

    Federal Government Exits Tertiary Institutions from IPPIS, Shuts Down Platform

    The Federal Government has officially taken Federal Tertiary Institutions (FTIs) off the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), resulting in the platform’s shutdown for these institutions. 

    According to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), this change aligns with a recent directive to transition FTIs to an alternative payroll management system.

    Starting this month, salaries for staff in these institutions will be processed via the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS), requiring institutions to submit payroll data in Excel format for verification. 

    The OAGF has assured workers that there’s no need to alter their salary account details as no mandate for account changes has been issued. 

    The office emphasized the focus on maintaining workers’ welfare, encouraging financial institutions to ensure robust handling of salary-related accounts.

    Employees who choose to change their salary accounts are advised to use the official channels provided by the OAGF for a seamless transition.