The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Sack of Education Minister and lingering crisis of 600 scholars omitted from TETFund bailout

    Sack of Education Minister and lingering crisis of 600 scholars omitted from TETFund bailout

    By Joju Adaba

    It is no news presently that Prof. Tahir Mamman, former Education Minister and four others, have been shown the way out of the office by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The press statement from the Presidential Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, attributed the new development to the President’s avowed commitment to ensuring speedy reforms,  accelerated growth and a non-reversible development in all sectors of the country’s socio-economic engagements, as it would no longer be business as usual. 

    Indeed, President Tinubu’s decision in this direction is quite laudable as it clearly signifies that the president has the political will to ensure his lieutenants deliver on the assignments he entrusts into their hands.  This very proactive approach to governance is a clear departure from the lack-lustre attitude of previous administrations.

    The recent sack of the five ministers, and particularly that of the Education Minister, signposts President Tinubu as a leader who means well for Nigerians and, more importantly, for the future of the younger generation. Clearly, there are indeed pressing issues that demand proactive steps and radical decisions in the ailing education sector of the country. These include many unresolved key requests and several demands from most of the labour unions in the public tertiary institutions, which include the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Congress of Nigeria Academics (CONUA) as well as various bodies of the non- academic staff unions in the tertiary institutions. Paramount among those issues include the lecturers’ withheld salaries of three and half months, non-teaching staff withheld salaries of five to six months, pending issues with IPPIS, poor and dilapidated teaching and learning facilities in most of these public tertiary institutions and of course, the recent outcry by 600 bona-fide Nigerian foreign scholars who alleged that they were deliberately omitted by some officials of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) from the beneficiaries of the recently disbursed presidential approved bailout among others. 

    The 600 Nigerian foreign scholars allegedly omitted by TETfund is indeed a worrisome and highly embarrassing development given the sensitive nature of the allegation and the fact that the Fund is yet to concretely address the issue for almost six months now that the allegation has been featuring in the national dailies. While the 600 foreign scholars confidently insist that some officials in TETFund should be probed for omitting their names from the N5 Billion presidential approved bailout, targeted at cushioning the effect of the increase in their foreign tuition fees due to skyrocketing rise in Dollar against Naira and the Covid-19 related expenses. As they consistently call for the probe of this allegation,  TETFund has merely denied the allegations without any concrete evidence or effort to probe or investigate it. Adding insult to injury are the reports that some of these innocent omitted scholars have been allegedly facing intimidations and various victimisations from their home institutions for having the gut to openly accuse some TETFund officials of omitting them from the bailout disbursement. It was reliably gathered that the management of their home institutions in Nigeria have served some of these innocent scholars several queries and even forced them to face university disciplinary panels,  so as to silence them from further attacking or exposing the TETFund staff’ alleged financial frivolity.

    A re-appraisal of this indecent development indeed raises some doubt in terms of corporate integrity against TETFund. While the Fund had only claimed to have spent a sum of N3.8 billion of the presidential bailout on only 1500 foreign scholars, one then asks the question, where is the remaining N1.2 billion? Such question becomes pertinent given the dust being raised by the 600 omitted scholars who are claiming that they have been deliberately edged out by some officials of the Commission for personal financial gain at the expense of the suffering and innocent foreign scholars who the bailout was officially meant for. 

    Read Also: Nigeria halfway through exiting FATF grey list

    This knotty situation surely calls for a probe into the allegations raised by the 600 Nigerian scholars who have been unrelenting in crying out in the media and also have written several “Save Our Soul” appeals (SOS) to several authorities of government which include the Presidency, Ministry of Education, TETFund, National Assembly, Senate and House of Representatives as well as the new TETFund Board Chairman – H. E. Rt. Hon. Alh. Aminu Bello Masari, among others. 

    In one of their reactions to the TETFund’s several denials of their claims and existence, the 600 omitted scholars have publicly declared that : “We are genuine and bona-fide foreign scholars and not faceless: We spread across universities in the UK, U.S and other foreign countries, where we are on the federal government sponsorship for our degrees in M.Sc, PhD, Benchwork and  Postdoctoral studies. Many of us are already doing odd jobs to weather the storm in these foreign lands due to the financial hardship caused by this omission of names from the bailout disbursement.”

    It has become non-negotiable that one of the top assignments for the new Minister of Education must be this issue of 600 omitted scholars, as it would be a national disgrace if our scholars who are the future academic leaders are allowed to remain stranded in foreign universities because of paltry school fees being allegedly siphoned by some TETFund officials, who were officially employed to look after the welfare and well-being of every Nigerian foreign scholars.

    Recently, the 600 affected foreign scholars have promised to remain law abiding and professional in their unrelenting agitation for the timely reconsideration of their bailout payment. Meanwhile, the scholars equally vowed to bring-in top Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) for necessary national publicity and strong social awareness of TETFund’s unofficial activities, as well as approaching the National Industrial Court for appropriate legal redress if the needful is not done within a reasonable time frame.

    Adaba writes from Lagos

  • 10 mistakes of sacked Education Minister, by group

    10 mistakes of sacked Education Minister, by group

    A non-government organisation, Education for Accelerated Development (EDAD), has commended the President, Bola Tinubu for relieving Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman of his appointment, describing it as an action long overdue. 

    The Minister was among five cabinet members sacked by President Tinubu on Wednesday to reposition the National Executive Council for effective service delivery. 

    EDAD, in a statement on Thursday by the national coordinator, Dr. Livinus Mbaonu, said Mamman was on a mission to reverse gains made in the education sector in recent times, commending his sack. 

    Listing ten reasons that may have led to his sack, EDAD said: “Providing misinformation leading to diplomatic conflict: Tahir’s statements led to a diplomatic misunderstanding between Nigeria, Benin Republic, and Togo, resulting in the suspension of degree programs from universities in these countries.

    “Misrepresenting accredited universities in Benin: He wrongly claimed that only three universities in Benin were accredited while the actual number is over 50, causing confusion about the legitimacy of these institutions.

    “Denial of NYSC Scheme to foreign students: His handling of foreign students’ participation in the NYSC scheme caused thousands of Nigerian graduates from Benin and Togo to be denied entry into the program and The Ministry of Education’s failure to address the needs of stranded foreign students whose scholarships are unpaid or delayed leads to significant challenges.

    Read Also: Tinubu fires five ministers in major cabinet reshuffle

    “Interagency conflicts: Under Tahir’s leadership, there were conflicts among key educational bodies like the NBTE, NUC, NYSC, and JAMB. This lack of coordination led to conflicting information, resulting in graduates being denied participation in the NYSC or professional exams.”

    It accused the former Minister of inefficiency in accreditation processes. According to the group, despite visiting over 50 universities for accreditation in a year, none of them were approved, showcasing bureaucratic delays and inefficiency.

    It added: “Interference in agency appointments: Tahir’s meddling in appointments across various agencies and boards under the Ministry of Education caused dissatisfaction and inefficiency in the management of educational institutions.

    “18-year admission policy: His implementation of an 18-year minimum age policy for university admissions resulted in a lawsuit against the Ministry, as many saw it as restrictive and discriminatory.

    “Pronouncement on degrees from Benin and Togo: Tahir declared that Nigerians who had obtained certificates from universities in Benin and Togo would be sacked from public service and prosecuted, which led to many Nigerians losing their jobs and caused widespread unrest.

    “False promise of stipend for unemployed graduates: He claimed that the Federal Government would pay stipends to all unemployed graduates in Nigeria, a promise that was not part of the government’s agenda and created false expectations.

    “Lack of cohesion with other officials: There was a noticeable lack of cooperation and harmony between Tahir and the Minister of State for Education, as well as other senior officials, leading to inefficiency in the Ministry’s operations.”

  • Parents, students seek ways out of ASUU’s perpetual strike threats

    Parents, students seek ways out of ASUU’s perpetual strike threats

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has again threatened to embark on indefinite strike over what it called the failure of the Federal Government to honour the 2009 agreement with members. However, parents and students have demanded urgent resolution of the outstanding issues as the deadline given by the union expired yesterday. Assistant Editor Bola Olajuwon writes

    Despite President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to continue to promote education and tackle issues affecting the sector, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to embark on an indefinite strike over failure of the Federal Government to honour the 2009 agreement reached with it.

    Tinubu, who was represented by the former Minister of State for Education, Yusuf Sununu, on Tuesday in Ilorin, spoke at the 39th Convocation of the University of Ilorin (Unilorin), again reiterating his administration’s resolve to improve the educational system and foster youth engagement in nation-building.

    He emphasised the importance of education in shaping Nigeria’s future and the role of young graduates in addressing the nation’s challenges. Tinubu highlighted the government’s initiatives to support students and educational institutions, such as the disbursement of student loans, and encouraged the students to take advantage of the scheme.

    He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining an uninterrupted academic calendar, and called for peaceful engagements between university staff and the government. The president explained that the government had taken steps to resolve staff shortages in universities, with recent waivers allowing institutions to recruit more personnel.

    ASUU on outstanding issues

    But, ASUU on Sunday, threatened to embark on indefinite strike over failure of the Federal Government to honour the 2009 agreement reached with it. Osodeke, who gave yesterday as the union’s deadline, said that ASUU’s planned strike notice over the payment platform and other issues was still standing, but the union had only given the government space to conclude on the new renegotiation committee that was set up.

    He explained why the union rejected two payment platforms of the government and insisted on University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) that ASUU created as alternative.

    ASUU had rejected the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), a platform the Federal Government uses to pay no fewer than 789,000 of its workers in various sectors of the economy. ASUU members are also currently on the platform.

    The union had also rejected Government Integrated Financial Management and Information System (GIFMIS), the platform the government recently approved that ASUU payment should transit to, with effect from November.

    Other lingering issues, according to him, were poor funding for the revitalisation of public universities, none payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) as captured in the 2023 budget, proliferation of universities, non-implementation of the reports of visitation panels to universities, among others.

    Govt’s panel to renegotiate deal

    To tackle the lingering crisis, the Federal Government re-established a seven-member renegotiation committee to address the 2009 agreements with university-based unions.

    Former Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, at the committee’s inauguration in Abuja, gave them a three-month deadline to conclude negotiations.

    The committee brings together representatives from ASUU and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non-Academic Staff of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

    Mamman stated that President Tinubu’s government aimed to improve the education system and maintain peace on campuses. He noted that renegotiations began in 2017 but were delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.

    He said that the previous committee, led by Prof. Nimi Briggs, produced a draft report covering significant areas.

    The minister urged the reconstituted committee to work diligently and produce realistic agreements addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian University System (NUS).

    Committee Chairman, Dr. Yayale Ahmed, appealed to the government to support universities in achieving global competitiveness and to consider lecturers’ salaries as investments.

    Osodeke thanked the government and expressed hope that the new committee would succeed where previous ones failed. He emphasised the unions’ readiness to renegotiate, provided the government worked towards a stable academic calendar.

    Tinubu will end ASUU strikes, Akume

    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said incessant strikes by university lecturers, under the aegis of the ASUU, will be a thing of the past under the Tinubu administration.

    He called on the ASUU leadership to always embrace dialogue instead of resorting to strikes.

    Akume’s comment came after the Federal Government set up a 31-member panel to renegotiate the agreement with the union in an effort to avert a fresh strike, following a threat by ASUU.

    The SGF assured Nigerians that strikes would stop under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

    A statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, said Akume disclosed this when the leadership of the Conference of Alumni Association of Nigerian Universities led by its President, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, paid him a visit in Abuja.

    The statement read, “Having urged the association to complement the government’s efforts in the development of the nation’s tertiary institution, the SGF also assured that industrial action will soon be a thing of the past under the present administration and urged the leadership of tertiary institutions to always toe the path of dialogue rather than resorting to strike.”

    ASUU: why we reject IPPIS, GIFMIS

    Osodeke, on Sunday, said that ASUU’s planned strike notice over the payment platform and other issues was still standing but awaiting the seriousness of the new renegotiation committee.

    He explained why ASUU rejected two payment platforms of the Federal Government and insisted on UTAS that it created as alternative. The ASUU President said the union’s stance was in line with the autonomy of the nation’s tertiary institutions. According to him, UTAS conforms to the statutory provision that the university’s finances should be managed by its governing council.

    “ASUU’s position is that the finances of the university should be managed by the Governing Council. That’s what the law says. It does not say by the Accountant General’s office.

    ”Every year, the governing council directs the vice chancellor to defend its budget at the National Assembly. When the budget is approved including salary, remuneration, overhead, it will go to the President for assent and it becomes a law.

    Read Also: Many varsities will soon shut down over electricity tariff hike, ASUU warns

    “That money should be released to the Governing Council to pay its staff members. That is the autonomy of the university we are talking about, as stipulated in the law,” he said.

    Osodeke stressed that the universities should be given autonomy, to be able to plan for its staff members’ recruitment and how to pay their salaries.

    He recalled that the union rejected IPPIS because its implementation does not only erodes university’s autonomy, but meddles with its internal affairs and violates Section 24A of the Universities Miscellaneous Provisions (Amendment) Act 2003.

    Osodeke also faulted the recent guidelines by the Federal Government detailing the process for the formal exit of Federal Tertiary Institutions (FTIs) from IPPIS.

    In a circular issued on October 8, the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, said the payroll for FTIs in the month of October 2024 will still be processed on the IPPIS platform.

    She added that, starting from November, the payrolls will be processed by the institutions themselves and then be checked by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation’s (OAGF)’s IPPIS department.

    According to her, the payment will be made through the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) platform.

    Osodeke, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the directives, stating that the AGF was playing games with the union. He said the insinuation in certain quarters that ASUU was insisting on UTAS, its own developed solution, to shield lecturers teaching in more than one institution, was misconceived. According to him, the establishment Act of university permits lecturers to teach in two institutions, but with laid down guidelines.

    According to him, it is not a new development, but the only caveat is that the maximum number of university a lecturer can practise such is two. Teaching beyond two institutions is tantamount to breaking the law.

    ”It is a global standard and that is why we have visiting professors from London, Ghana, among others coming here to impact their knowledge,” he said.

    He said that ASUU’s planned strike notice over the payment platform and other issues was still standing.

    Parents seek more funding for education, urgent deals

    NAPTAN Deputy National President Adeolu Ogunbanjo yesterday told The Nation that ASUU has been for long demanded resolution of the outstanding issues.

    “Well, it’s a current decimal that the ASUU members are saying that such issues should be addressed. Government should also try to address it, because it’s been recurring. That is something the government have not yet addressed. So, we plead to the government this time. Yes, they have set up a panel, and hopefully this time, the panel will be able to resolve it.

    “However, ASUU should try and work with the panel. For me, I would want the government, for the very last time, to sort these things out. ASUU should suspend whatever thing they want to do. I mean, children will now come back home staring at us. It’s something terrible and the private universities are benefitting from the deficit of the ASUU strike. So, we won’t say ASUU is deliberately going on strike so that private universities can thrive. Government is also not making things easy. Let government sort it out for the very last time. ASUU should suspend their strike and give the government a last opportunity to sort the situation out,” Ogunbanjo said.

    Also in a report, the NAPTAN National President, Alhaji Haruna Danjuma, urged the federal and state governments to allocate at least 26 percent of their annual appropriations to the education sector.

    According to him, doing so would be in tandem with the recommendation by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) that developing nations should allocate such percentage to the sector to be able to do some catch up with developed countries in the sector.

    However, he was delighted that the Federal Government set up the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to help support state funding of the sector.

    Students seek urgent resolution of outstanding deals

    The university students said they could not afford another shut down of universities with it grave consequences on their academic pursuit and their lives.

    They expressed deep concern over the potential disruption to the academic calendar and the negative impact on their future, urging the Federal Government to as a matter of national urgency dialogue with the lecturers and resolve all the contentious issues.

    A student, who craved anonymity, said: “We are all aware of the recurring disruptions caused by strikes in our universities. These strikes, often as a result of unresolved issues between university lecturers and the government, bear far-reaching consequences on our educational journey.

    “We can only appeal to the government to take immediate and effective steps to prevent the lecturers from resorting to another strike. We are counting on the government to act decisively and with a sense of urgency to prevent the devastating impact of another strike.”

    A student of University of Lagos (UNILAG), David Adedayo, noted that he ought to have completed his four-year course in the institution, but ASUU’s prolonged strikes have prolonged his stay on campus.

    He pleaded with government and the lecturers to urgently resolve the outstanding issues, adding that he could not wait to resume from the institution’s long vacation.

  • Fed Govt urges varsities, polytechnics to embrace digital change

    Fed Govt urges varsities, polytechnics to embrace digital change

    The Federal Government has urged universities and polytechnics administrators to embrace digital transformation to facilitate processes and prevent fraud.

    Former Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, made the call at the 2024 International Week and 17th Annual Research Conference of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

    Mamman was represented by Dr. Chris Maiyaki, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission.

    The event had the theme: “Inclusive Digital Transformation and the University Promise.

    Mamman said that the step would enhance job efficiency, reduce fraud in admission processes, and elevate institutions to global standards.

     He emphasised replacement of outdated manual systems with digital platforms to improve overall efficiency in university operations.

    “Digitalisation has re-designed communication processes for work and learning, allowing hybrid modes of engagement from anywhere,” he said.

    Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof Folashade Ogunsola, said the theme of the 2024 International Week reflected concrete steps UNILAG had taken to integrate technology into every aspect of learning.

    She said that each year, the university dedicated a week to look back on what it had achieved and discuss strategic ways to be more globally relevant through various partnerships.

    Read Also: ‘Convergence to hasten digital change’

    The vice-chancellor said the institution recently presented awards to winners of its innovation challenge, which was funded by the AfriTech Network.

    Ogunsola added that the purpose of the challenge was to encourage students of UNILAG and students from other universities to apply creativity, curiosity and critical thinking.

    According to her, the challenge was also aimed to enable the students to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems in ways that would bring Nigeria closer to achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

    “I am truly confident that we are well on our way to the future. Their challenge was to solve the issue of energy.

    “Their thinking is totally out of the box. Innovation has no impact if we leave out the people factor,” she added.

  • Makinde inaugurates GCI Old Boys’ multi-million naira projects

    Makinde inaugurates GCI Old Boys’ multi-million naira projects

    • Re-elected GCIOBA President Babalakin pledges prompt teachers’ salary payment

    IT was all festivities at the weekend in Ibadan, Oyo State, as dignitaries attended the inauguration of several multi-million-naira infrastructure projects funded by the Old Boys Association of Government College Ibadan (GCI).

    The projects were officially inaugurated by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to commemorate the school’s 95th anniversary of the institution which has undergone a significant transformation following completion of the projects.

    The notable projects include the renovation of the Principal’s Lodge by the 1964 set, the construction of Grier House by Dr. Olawale Babalakin (1971), football pitch refurbished by 1973 Set and the refurbishment of the dining hall by Demola Odutola (1970).

    Other completed projects include the renovation of the assembly hall, technical drawing building, buttery, and quadrangle buildings.

    These efforts have significantly improved GCI’s infrastructure, benefiting students, teachers and the school’s overall academic environment.

    During the inauguration ceremony, Makinde praised the old boys for their dedication to GCI’s revitalisation.

    Emphasising their crucial role in addressing infrastructure gaps in education, the governor expressed his commitment to supporting their efforts in securing a brighter future for Nigerian children.

    He said: “Only the gifted will be sent here.”

    National President of GCIOBA, Dr. Olawale Babalakin, expressed gratitude for the state government’s support and highlighted Governor Makinde’s instrumental role in enabling their success.

    He stressed the importance of repositioning education in the country and urged other alumni associations to collaborate with the government in improving schools.

    Babalakin stressed the need for an educational curriculum that equips students with the skills required for the modern workforce. He also emphasised the importance of investing in infrastructure and attracting quality teachers to ensure GCI’s continued success.

    Read Also: Makinde commissions GCIOBA 84 set projects at 40th reunion

    Dr. Babalakin, who was re-elected GCIOBA President, promised that teachers employed by the association will receive their salaries on or before the 25th of every month, starting this month.

    He expressed the association’s commitment to improving the welfare of teachers.

    “We should also state that in October 2024, salaries will be paid on or before the 25th of every month. Donors should please ensure that their commitments are paid long before then to enable the Treasury to implement a very good plan,” he said.

    He also revealed that the association’s Teachers’ Support Fund can currently support twenty teachers, with plans to increase that number to forty-five.

    “We aim to employ forty-five exceptional teachers to raise the standard of education at GCI,” Babalakin noted.

    He acknowledged the contributions of the North America branch, which currently funds eight teachers and two technical staff, as well as other Old Boys who have supported the employment of 10 teachers.

    Vice President of GCIOBA, Tola Obembe, described the old boys’ efforts as a way of giving back to the institution that shaped them. He thanked the Oyo State government for allowing the association to manage and upgrade the school.

    GCIOBA General Secretary Lanre Olubi outlined the association’s ambitious 25-year plan to elevate GCI to one of the top 10 schools in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for continued support from Old Boys to achieve these targets, particularly in attracting and retaining quality teachers.

    During the school’s week-long celebration, former acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Adebisi Shonubi, delivered a lecture titled “How, What We Do?” He highlighted the importance of teacher quality in improving student outcomes and stressed the need for teachers to employ effective pedagogical strategies to enhance student learning.

    “Teacher quality refers to the way teachers employ their knowledge, skill, and ability to develop meaningful pedagogic experience for students. It alludes to students- teachers’ interaction in the classroom and teachers’ behaviour that enhances positive educational outcomes in students,” he said.

    This, the former CBN Governor said would help build a robust economy, as you can only give what you have.

    Shonubi emphasised the crucial role of teacher quality in improving student outcomes. While highlighting that effective teachers possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to create meaningful learning experiences for students, the speaker stated that the result of the teachers efforts are felt much later in the future and is reflected when such a student takes up leadership role thereby giving back meaningfully to the economy at large.

  • TFN alumni innovators get cash rewards

    TFN alumni innovators get cash rewards

    Teach For Nigeria (TFN) has rewarded winners of its 2024 Incubation Hub.

    The winners, Nwabuike Odike Collins’  got N2 million seed grant  for his Waste to Design  as the overall winner; Joy Ifeanyi’s Waste to Desks got her N1 million in second position,  while  Babajide Ajayi’s The Warriors’ Project earned third place with a grant of  N500,000.

    Collins’ project is up-cycling plastic waste in schools; Ifeanyi’s is recycling plastic into desks, while Ajayi is supporting students living with sickle cell.

    This year, as in previous editions, innovators underwent a three-month enterprise development training, culminating in a pitch competition where 10 innovators showcased their initiatives for a chance to win a N2 million seed grant.

    Read Also: TFN inducts 505  professionals, others  into programme

    TFN thanked Oando Foundation for supporting the Incubation Hub since its inception in 2020, adding that the partnership has been instrumental in fostering innovation and driving the growth of impactful social enterprises.

    The 2024 Incubation Innovators’ projects addressed key challenges.

    Agnes Onyekwere Disu’s Project MEND is empowering women with vocational training; Paschal Anyanwu’s Digital Empowerment Network is bridging the digital divide, while Oluwatobi Sonde’s Project DELIC(Digital Education in Low-Income Communities) is promoting STEAM and digital literacy.

  • UNIZIK appoints female registrar amidst crisis

    UNIZIK appoints female registrar amidst crisis

    The Governing Council of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, led by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, has appointed an Awka indigene, Ifeoma Nwokike, as the new substantive registrar of the institution.

    The appointment is coming amidst crisis that has enveloped the institution in recent time over the position of vice chancellor.

    Nwokike is a lawyer by profession and the first Awka person to hold such position since the inception of the school.

    In a statement yesterday, issued by Mbadiwe and made available to The Nation in Awka, the new registrar would serve for five years.

    The appointment, which came after an intensive nationwide search and comprehensive evaluation of candidates, marked a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to excellence in educational administration.

    Read Also: UniZik VC appointment: Southeast, Southsouth doctors declare five-day solidarity warning strike

    The selection process, overseen by the university’s governing council, involved multiple stages of screening, interviews and thorough assessment of candidates’ credentials and track records.

    Nwokike’s emergence as the successful candidate was attributed to her impressive academic credentials and rich administrative experience.

    Her educational background, which includes a PhD in view, an LLM in Maritime Law and Policy, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), as well as a second degree from the Faculty of Law, UNN, positioned her as a standout candidate among the pool of applicants.

  • Methodist Girls marks 145th anniversary with communion service, carnival

    Methodist Girls marks 145th anniversary with communion service, carnival

    As part of the weeklong celebration marking the 145th anniversary of the prestigious Methodist Girls’ High School, the institution hosted a Holy Communion Service followed by a vibrant street carnival that brought life to Adekunle and its surrounding areas in Yaba, Lagos State.

    The weeklong celebration of Methodist Girls’ High School’s 145th anniversary underscored the institution’s rich heritage and its continued role in shaping the future of education in the country.

    The celebrations, which began with a Holy Communion Service led by the Archbishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese, Most Rev. Obafemi Adeleye, set a spiritual tone for the festivities.

    Shortly after, the carnival procession kicked off, featuring both current students and alumnae as they proudly marched through the streets.

    Participants waved banners representing different graduating classes, each set distinguished by unique attire, adding to the colorful and festive atmosphere.

    The Nigeria Civil Defence Corps and volunteers ensured security and smooth proceedings throughout the event. Alumnae, including members from the 1960 set, participated with enthusiasm, showcasing their enduring connection to the school.

    In his address, Most Rev. Adeleye emphasised the significance of the milestone, stating, “This anniversary is a time to celebrate God’s grace and faithfulness over the past 145 years.” He expressed gratitude for the school’s legacy and reaffirmed the Methodist Church’s commitment to upholding its reputation for excellence.

    Read Also: Cabinet reshuffling: FG sets Oct 30 deadline for handover, merger of ministries 

    “Methodist Girls’ High School is renowned not only for academic excellence but also for its contributions to nation-building,” Adeleye said.

    “Many of our graduates hold prominent positions in society, continuing to make impactful contributions.”

    He encouraged the current students to carry forward the values of honesty, integrity and excellence that have long defined the school. “We hope today’s students will follow in the footsteps of their predecessors, maintaining the high standards of character and excellence that this institution is known for.”

    Adeleye also called on the government to extend financial support to private schools, stressing the importance of including them in national education policy.

    Princess Roeselyn Olayemi, who served as head girl from 1960 to 1966, shared her reflections on the school’s impact.

  • 226 bag First Class as ABUAD graduates 1,662 students

    226 bag First Class as ABUAD graduates 1,662 students

    No fewer than 226 students of the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti(ABUAD) out of 1,662 on Monday graduated with First Class honours during the  convocation ceremony of the institution.

    ABUAD Vice Chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, in his address during the 12th convocation ceremony and 15th Founder’s Day Event, explained that out of the graduating students, 1,485 bagged Bachelor’s degrees and 177 were postgraduate students.

    She said the best graduating students from the department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Omolara Ogundana, graduated with the perfect CGPA of 5.0/5.0 from total of 216 course units.

    At the ceremony, the Attorney- General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; multi-talented lawyer, Mr. Damian D. Dodo, SAN and the serving overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, Lagos, Pastor Tunde Bakare, were honoured.

    The VC explained that the institution has remained consistent in its leadership in the nation’s education sector, innovations and societal contributions.

    According to her, the vision of the founder, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, in establishing the university is to produce graduates that would change the course of the country and the world and as well as contribute to the betterment of the society.

    Read Also: FEC okays €443.3, $141m credit facilities for fighter jets, ammunition

    On the students’ loan scheme of the Federal Government, the ABUAD VC described as discriminatory the exclusion of students from private institutions in the country, adding that the government’s decision creates unequal access to education for deserving students.

    She lamented the deplorable state of federal roads in Ekiti State, especially the Ado-Ijan road leading to the university, calling on the Federal Government to address the lingering infrastructural deficit in the interest of the citizens.

    Speaking, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, lauded the contributions of ABUAD to advancement of knowledge and human capital development in the country.

    Aiyedatiwa explained that the institution in the last 15 years of its existence has changed the face of education in the country with its quality education evident in the exploits of its graduates across all sectors of the economy.

    He lauded the commitment of the ABUAD founder to the development of the nation’s education sector with the establishment of the institution, which he said, has made positive impacts with the quality of learning.

    He congratulated Prince Fagbemi, Pastor Bakare and Dodo for the honorary awards bestowed on them by ABUAD, noting that their contributions and commitment to the advancement of humanity and the law profession necessitated the recognition.

    According to him, “It is exciting to be part of the 12th convocation ceremony and 15th founder’s day celebration of this great institution. Let me congratulate this institution for this day and also thank God for the founder that he is alive and in good health to witness this day.

    “I want to commend our own Aare Afe Babalola for the huge investment he has put into the building of this great citadel of learning. A huge investment that is driven by vision to offer to the world and humanity a world-class and reformative education of great standard.”

  • Baptist Old boys lift alma mater with lawn tennis court

    Baptist Old boys lift alma mater with lawn tennis court

    The Baptist Academy 1970-74/76 Set has reiterated its commitment to continue to lift their alma mater through various interventions that cut across academics, infrastructure, among others. The newly-built and inaugurated lawn tennis court underscores the set’s resolve and passion to ensure the school doesn’t lag behind in academics and other areas like sports, DAMOLA KOLA-DARE reports

    It was a remarkable reunion of sorts when members of the 1970-74/76 set of Baptist Academy Obanikoro, Lagos, as well as Baptist Academy Old Students Association (BAOSA) came together in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie to inaugurate the newly -constructed lawn tennis court on the school’s premises on Tuesday.

    The ceremony, which attracted old and current students of the school, was an avenue for old students to relive beautiful memories they had in school days. The inauguration was part of activities to celebrate 50 years of leaving their alma mater.

    Chairman of the anniversary committee, Mr. Lanre Idowu, expressed delight at the completion of the project after initial problems they had concerning the parcel of land to use.

    Idowu, who is the immediate past president of BAOSA, said: “By this time next month, it will be five years we started the construction of the lawn tennis court. When we entered the school in 1970, we had two standard courts. We have helped the school in academics, but in terms of sports, we planned. When we started the court, we were stopped because of land issue. SUBEB seemed not to hear us well.

    “I told my successor we must not abandon the project. The Lagos State Governor called the SUBEB Chair to do everything in his power to ensure the court was built on the land. The students are today the beneficiaries. The third phase is to have a gallery with changing room and restroom. The dream is to make the school a hub of lawn tennis and if there are competitions, it can be used.”

    Earlier, Chairman of the 1970-74/76 set, Mr. Tony Egoegonwa, beamed with happiness at the realisation of the project despite the odds. He thanked everyone who had contributed to success of the project. He urged all other sets and old students to make it a culture to always give back to their alma mater.

    “We thank God for his protection and guidance over us. I am elated at the completion of this project. It will make the students useful to themselves and nation. This is court one. The second court is coming too. It will come with spectator gallery. I want to appreciate all our members. The project has been made possible by members through their finances and input. I appreciate Mr. Lanre Idowu, the anniversary chair, for his tireless efforts towards the realisation of this project.

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    “I urge all our alumni to contribute their own quota as there is still more to do on the school premises. I appreciate Mr. Akin Fatunke, the BAOSA president. I thank all other sets and urge them to come back to give to their alma mater,” he said.

    Also sharing in the joy of the moment, Chairman of Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Mr. Tokunbo Agoro, praised the old boys for being selfless and passionate about their school. He urged the school to utilise and maintain the facility properly.

    He said:  “I commend the old boys for this initiative. The selfless initiatives to give back are worth celebrating. Building a tennis courts aligns with our aim and objectives in Lagos.

    “My advice is, don’t go on the court with your normal shoes, it will destroy the court. Maintenance is the most difficult task. Ensure it is well maintained every time, I congratulate you all, keep up the good work.”

    The principal of the school, Deacon Abodunrin Gbenga Emmanuel, while thanking the old students, said the best way the school can show gratitude is to use it well and produce the best lawn tennis player in Lagos State.

    “Baptist Academy Alumni has been wonderful. On behalf of the management, I express gratitude to the all members of the 1970-74/76 Set. We are leaving a legacy for other sets through this. What we are seeing today is an act of doing and not just saying. The old boys want to replicate what they experienced during their time in the school. The best way to show our gratitude is not only to use it well, but produce the best lawn tennis player in Lagos State,” he said.

    There was an exhibition match to inaugurate the court as old students played against current students. Meanwhile, the set announced that work will begin for the construction of the second court immediately.