The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Alumni worry over decline in quality of teaching, infrastructure in public schools

    Alumni worry over decline in quality of teaching, infrastructure in public schools

    The Alumni of Anglican Grammar School (Unity) Gbogan/Ode-Omu are worried over decline in the quality of teaching, infrastructure and performances in some public schools.

    They said the state of education in some public schools is gradually becoming worrisome.

    Speaking at the 40th reunion of the 1985 set of the Alumni, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Pastor Wale Adeleke, said the condition of some public schools nationwide needs urgent action.

    Speaking about the reunion, he said it was the culmination of a decade-long effort to bring classmates together, describing the event as joyful and sobering.

    “Bringing everyone together has taken 10 years, and thankfully, God has made it possible this year. Over time, we have sponsored students for JAMB, and three of them are now in universities.

    “Some of us also returned to teach whenever we gained admission. Coming back today fills us with pride but also with a sense of responsibility, especially when we see the present condition of the school.”

    Adeleke emphasised the critical role alumni must play in revitalising public schools across the country.

    “Government has failed in many areas and misplaced priorities. That’s why schools now lack teachers in key subjects such as Physics, Computer Science and English.”

    “As alumni, we have stepped in by employing teachers and paying their salaries. Physical structures may fail, but human capital endures,” he said. 

    Executive Secretary of the Senior Secondary Education Board, Mrs Hannah Ibidunni Kolawole, praised the body’s four decades of contributing to national development.

    “This gathering is more than a celebration of time; it is a celebration of legacy, of nurturing minds, shaping character and producing men and women who have made meaningful contributions to society.”

    She also highlighted the indispensable influence of the Old Students Association.

    “Through initiatives in infrastructure development, scholarships, mentorship and community engagement, your Association reflects the enduring spirit of giving back.”

    “Let this 40th anniversary be a renewed commitment to ensuring that the school continues to stand as a beacon of knowledge, character and service for generations to come,” she added.

    Vice Chairman of the Governing Board, Chartered Accountant Femi Yusuf, detailed the group’s continuous support for current students.

    “Our set has consistently paid WAEC and JAMB fees, sponsored tutorials and even placed teachers of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English on our payroll. These actions are our wayy of bridging the gaps left by government.”

    Another member of the 1985 set, Pastor Funsho Popoola underscored the link between education and national progress.

    “Education is the strongest foundation for national growth. Our interventions, paying exam fees, hiring teachers, renovating facilities, are a call to all alumni to invest in the future of our schools.”

    “Without such support, students cannot compete globally, especially in IT, robotics and engineering.”

    He also raised concerns about declining parental involvement, saying “Many parents discourage their children from engaging fully in academic programmes because they believe education is a scam.”

  • UNILAG Law Alumni 85 renovate facilities, donate N10m

    UNILAG Law Alumni 85 renovate facilities, donate N10m

    The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Law Alumni Class of 1985 has been commended for supporting the renovation of facilities in the Faculty of Law in the institution and donating N10m to support indigent students as part of activities marking the group’s 40th anniversary.

    The Class was commended over the weekend  while handing over the newly renovated restrooms to the Faculty. 

    Speaking at the ceremony, the representative of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Osipitan, commended the Class of 1985 for its generous intervention.

    While noting that lecturers are “trustees to the students they teach,” Professor Osipitan the contributions from alumni has helped to strengthen the university’s mandate to deliver world-class legal education.

    He said the support of the alumni is critical 

    since the UNILAG is owned by multiple stakeholders—including the Federal Government, alumni and donors. 

    Highlighting the strength of the Faculty of Law, the VC’s representative noted that the faculty boasts 21 professors and 8 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), a record unmatched by any law faculty in Nigeria. 

    The Don described UNILAG law students as “fit-for-purpose lawyers,” who are  nurtured by a faculty he described as“incomparable.”

     The 85 Class was also applauded for addressing a core need that directly affects the students well-being by the President of the UNILAG Alumni Association Worldwide, Ifeoluwa Oyedele for their exemplary commitment to the university’s development. 

    He encouraged other alumni sets to emulate the gesture and continue supporting the institution through the alumni app available on the Google Play Store.

    He cited global benchmarks, noting that Harvard University manages a $57.3 billion endowment fund, while UNILAG currently has ₦1 billion.

    He therefore emphasized the need for sustained alumni participation in order to boost the institution’s financial base and student support systems.

    Apart from the renovation of the restrooms, the Class of 1985 also announced that it plans to have a ₦10 million endowment fund for indigent students in the Faculty aimed at supporting academically qualified students who face financial challenges.

    Project Chair, Chief Adetunji Orisalade, who was represented by his son, Barrister Damilola Orisalade presented an overview of the renovation works, after which Justice Bisi Akinlade, a distinguished member of the class, led other alumni in performing the ceremonial handover. 

    Read Also: UNILAG Alumni: town-gown partnerships vital for development

    In a separate presentation, former Director of Legal Services at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Yetunde Akinloye, described the anniversary as deeply emotional for members of the class.

    Her words: “Forty years ago, we stepped out of these gates unsure of what the future held. We were trained by some of the finest minds in academia. These include the likes of Professor Omotola of blessed memory, Agbede, Abiola Ojo, Adeyemi, Akanki, Adesanya, Anifalaje, and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. This anniversary felt like a landmark, and we decided it was time to give back to the place where it all began,” she said.

    The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Abiola Sanni, however thanked the alumni for their generosity, describing their efforts as a seed that would inspire other sets to support the faculty.

    Other prominent members of the Class of ’85 present included  legal practitioner, Taiwo Kupolati (SAN), Olusegun Akinloye, Justice Olabisi Akinlade, Justice Yetunde Adesanya, Akin Falade, Professor Kunle Aina, and Adedeji Adeshina.

  • Scholars urge curriculum reform, vocational integration in Arabic, Islamic schools

    Scholars urge curriculum reform, vocational integration in Arabic, Islamic schools

    Scholars at the 40th anniversary of Markaz-ul-Uloom, one of Nigeria’s leading Arabic and Islamic educational institutions, have called for urgent reforms in the curriculum of Arabic and Islamic schools, emphasising the integration of vocational skills, modern knowledge, and moral education.

    Speaking at the event on Saturday, November 29, the experts underscored the need to equip students with practical skills alongside religious knowledge to prepare them for contemporary societal challenges.

    The anniversary panel discussion, themed “Arabic and Islamic Schools in the Contemporary World: Achieving Synergy through Diverse Mechanisms,” was moderated by Sheik Abdulrahman Adangba.

    The panellists included Sheik Adam Yahya Al-Fulaani (Waziri Marcas Ageg), Dr. Mustopha Bello, Prof. Olurotimi Timehin, Dr. Mutiat Orolu Balogun, and Mr. Sulaiman AbdulMajeed.

    Dr. Mutiat Orolu Balogun highlighted the vital role of women in Islam, urging Muslim women to harmonise their professional or business pursuits with Islamic callings.

    She noted that women’s active participation in economic and religious spheres is essential for the overall development of society, stressing that Islamic education must encourage the balance between spiritual duties and professional growth.

    Dr. Mustopha Bello focused on the importance of earning halal (lawful) livelihoods, regardless of one’s proficiency in Arabic or Islamic studies.

    Read Also: Barau urges security agencies to prevent bandits’ incursion into two Kano LGAs

    He argued that the pursuit of knowledge must be complemented by productive engagement in society.

    Bello further advocated for a review and standardisation of the Islamic curriculum to accommodate courses in digital technology, artificial intelligence, management, and other vocational skills.

    “We need to standardise and review our Islamic curriculum to incorporate contemporary courses that equip students for modern challenges,” he said.

    Sheik Adam Al-Fulaani addressed the broader question of living beyond the confines of Dawah, or Islamic callings.

    He raised concerns over the declining communication in Arabic among scholars, describing it as a threat to the language itself.

    He stressed that success requires thorough planning and an understanding of the rules governing life and society.

    “Understanding your life, your people, and your environment is crucial to success and provides solutions to gaps that hinder achievement,” Al-Fulaani said, calling again for a curriculum review to strengthen both Arabic proficiency and life skills.

    Mr. Sulaiman AbdulMajeed urged Markaz-ul-Uloom and other Arabic institutes to bridge the gap between the academic environment and real-world society.

    He expressed concern over the lack of humility and moral grounding among many graduates, attributing this to inadequate teaching of Dawah in the Madrasha.

    “Many graduates believe they know everything and nothing more is left to learn,” he said, stressing that vocational training must be included in the curriculum to produce well-rounded, morally upright graduates.

    Prof. Olurotimi Timehin emphasised the centrality of morality to achieving personal and societal goals. He warned of growing moral bankruptcy due to the failure to follow ethical conduct, stressing that attitudes determine success.

    “Moral knowledge must be embedded in our daily activities to guide behaviour and ensure that education translates into responsible citizenship,” he said.

    The panellists collectively stressed that Arabic and Islamic schools must evolve to meet contemporary challenges, blending traditional religious teachings with practical and ethical education.

    They argued that integrating vocational skills, modern knowledge, and moral training would equip graduates to contribute meaningfully to society while remaining grounded in Islamic principles.

    The 40th anniversary celebration of Markaz-ul-Uloom, held at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, provided a platform for scholars to reflect on the future of Islamic education in Nigeria.

    The discussions highlighted the urgent need for educational reforms that combine faith, knowledge, ethics, and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are both spiritually grounded and socially competent.

    As Markaz-ul-Uloom celebrates four decades of excellence in Arabic and Islamic education, the consensus among the scholars is clear: for the institution to remain relevant in the contemporary world, it must embrace curriculum reforms that prepare students for the challenges of modern life while reinforcing moral and religious values.

    This landmark discussion signals a renewed commitment among Nigerian Islamic educational leaders to modernise Arabic and Islamic schools, creating a generation of scholars capable of balancing religious devotion with practical, ethical, and vocational competence.

  • ‘We don’t offer admissions into QUEST University’, QNET warns

    ‘We don’t offer admissions into QUEST University’, QNET warns

    …firm canvases sustainability, skills development at Lagos products expo

    QNET has cautioned the public against claims linking the company to admissions into QUEST International University in Malaysia, insisting that the institution operates independently under its parent organisation, the QI Group.

    It gave the warning at a quarterly product expo in Lagos at the weekend, following the activities of fraudsters who have continued to use the name of the wellness brand and its sister university to defraud prospective students across West Africa.

    Speaking at the interactive session with journalists, QNET explained that the QUEST University, which runs medical, business, and economics schools, was solely responsible for managing its admissions through its own portals.

    It reiterated that no individual, agent, or QNET representative was authorised to secure admission for applicants, urging intending students to apply directly to the university, upload required documents, and await approval from its admissions board.

    The firm said maintaining clear boundaries between its business operations and the university’s academic programmes was essential to protect applicants from misinformation and fraudulent claims.

    While showcasing the range of products offered by QNET to hundreds of guests who attended the product expo at Ikeja, QNET maintained its drive towards developing the skills of young people and its commitment to innovations that protect the environment.

    Read Also: Barau urges security agencies to prevent bandits’ incursion into two Kano LGAs

    Regional Strategy and Marketing Manager, QNET Sub-Saharan Africa, Bernhard Gaksch, who interfaced with journalists, said the company was deepening investments in wellness technology, eco-friendly manufacturing, and digital learning platforms to meet rising demand from young Africans seeking healthier living and new economic opportunities.

    Gaksch said the company’s diverse product line spanning wellness, sustainability, travel, luxury, and learning reflected its broader mission to promote ethical direct selling, empower young Africans, and support healthier lifestyles.

    “Through innovation, sustainability, and education, we want Africans to access quality products and skills that improve their wellbeing and strengthen their future,” he said.

    Among the products on display were QNET’s premium watch collections from Bernhard H. Mayer and Cimier, Swiss boutique watchmakers with a heritage dating back to 1871; the Omni Collection, produced from 100 per cent recycled materials including stainless steel and rubber, as well as the 99 Names of Allah special edition and the official Manchester City FC watch.

    Other items on display included the HomePure Nova water purification system, a nine-stage filtration device that addresses chemical contaminants while retaining essential minerals; the HomePure Zayn air purification unit, a portable six-stage system designed to filter pollutants, chemicals, and airborne viruses, among others.

    A key focus of the expo was QLearn, QNET’s online educational platform offering professional certificates from UK, US, and EU institutions.

    The courses, which include business management, financial literacy, communication, and network marketing, are designed to equip young entrepreneurs with essential skills for business growth.

    Gaksch said many youths joining QNET lack formal business training, and QLearn helps them build a foundation for success.

  • NECO accredits schools in Burkina Faso for SSCE, BECE

    The National Examinations Council (NECO) has granted accreditation to schools in Burkina Faso to host its examinations, widening its international footprint.

    The examination body announced the expansion in a statement signed by its Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Azeez Sani, on Sunday in Abuja.

    According to the statement, the council would now begin to conduct the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the West African country.

    It said the move followed a comprehensive assessment visit by a NECO accreditation team to selected schools in the West African country.

    The statement reads, “During the visit, the team evaluated the readiness of the institutions by inspecting classrooms, laboratories, libraries, computer labs, workshops, examination halls, sports facilities, and security architecture.

    Read Also: Barau urges security agencies to prevent bandits’ incursion into two Kano LGAs

    “They also reviewed the schools’ Continuous Assessment, CA, records, teacher adequacy, and general learning environment to determine suitability for NECO examinations.

    “After what was described as a thorough and detailed evaluation, the schools were granted full accreditation to host the SSCE and BECE.”

    The statement noted that the expansion into Burkina Faso underscored NECO’s commitment to delivering quality education and assessment services beyond Nigeria’s borders.

    “With its expanding global presence, NECO is poised to become a leading examination body in Africa, offering opportunities for Nigerian students and other foreign nationals worldwide to benefit from its expertise,” the statement added.

    The council recalled the recent establishment of an examination centre in London, United Kingdom, adding to existing centres in Togo, Benin Republic, Niger Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, and Saudi Arabia.

    Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Amb. M.D. Galadima commended NECO for the expansion, describing it as a relief for Nigerian families in the country.

    Galadima revealed that parents had long grappled with challenges arising from differences in educational systems and the lack of English language schools.

    “Previously, parents had to take their children to Saki, Oyo State, to register and write the examination, exposing students and parents to security risks and imposing heavy financial burdens on families and school proprietors,” he said.

    He added that the accreditation would eliminate these risks and reduce financial strain on parents.

    The ambassador urged the Nigerian community in Burkina Faso to take advantage of the opportunity by registering their children for the NECO examinations.

    Leader of the accreditation team, Dr Uche Ezenwanne, said the move would enable Nigerian students living in Burkina Faso to write SSCE and BECE without traveling back to Nigeria.

    This move, he said, would reinforce NECO’s position as Africa’s foremost examination body.

  • Financial guru Adeshina bags ECU honorary doctorate

    Financial guru Adeshina bags ECU honorary doctorate

    Financial expert and chairman of United Kingdom–based Ultra Goldfield Logistics Limited, Dr Bade Adeshina, has been conferred with an honorary doctorate by Edwin Clark University (ECU), Kiagbodo, Delta State.

    Adeshina received the Doctor of Management Science (D.MSc) (Honoris Causa) in Entrepreneurial Finance and Management during the institution’s combined 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th convocation ceremony, held on Saturday.

    Late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark founded the varsity.

    In his acceptance speech, Adeshina expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, linking it to his lifelong commitment to building institutions and advancing ethical leadership.

    “I thank the Senate and leadership of Edwin Clark University for the confidence reposed in me and my work. Your recognition strengthens my belief that steady service, ethical leadership and commitment to learning remain essential for building strong institutions and a stronger nation,” he said.

    Reflecting on his professional journey, he added, “My journey in finance, governance and institutional development has been shaped by the lessons I gained through education, the guidance of the Almighty and the invaluable encouragement from my colleagues and my family… This award is not only a personal honour; it is a reminder for me to continue to contribute where my skills and experience can make a meaningful difference.”

    He urged young Nigerians to remain committed to integrity, noting, “I hope my story encourages young Nigerians to pursue excellence with discipline, and lead with integrity wherever they find themselves.”

    Adeshina also praised institutions of learning for their crucial role in national development, saying, “On occasions such as this, we must appreciate the role that citadels of learning in our country must continue to play in rebuilding Nigeria… This university deserves all the support we as alumni can provide.”

    The ceremony also saw the award of honorary doctorate degree on the Chairman Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo a.k.a Tompolo. 

    He was represented by his media adviser, Dr Paul Bebenimibo.

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by a state government officials, Augustine Itawasa, commended the school management and students for the achievements recorded in the past 10 years.

    In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Samuel Tita Wara, announced that a total of 463 graduates were conferred with various degrees. 

    These included nine registered nurses and midwives (the pioneer set), 450 undergraduates; 36 first-class graduates, 218 second-class upper, 193 second class lower, 13 third class, and three postgraduate students, marking the university’s first postgraduate class.

    Ogio Anita Ominizibe, with a CGPA of 4.91, emerged the overall best graduating student.

    Charging the graduands on their future responsibilities, Wara said they must go out “as ambassadors of light, go and build bridges, not walls, promote inclusion, integrity and innovation, be voices of transformation innevery sector… the world awaits their leadership, ideas and light.”

    Chancellor and Chairman of the Edwin Kiagbodo Clark Foundation, Dr. Collins Clark, highlighted the university’s rising reputation, noting that ECU now ranks 17th among 98 private universities and 32nd among all universities nationwide.

    The Pro-Chancellor reaffirmed the founder’s vision for “quality education with minimal fees,” while acknowledging the support of the Bayelsa State Government, Niger Delta Development Commission, the Presidential Amnesty Programme and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in strengthening the institution.

    Delivering the convocation lecture, David Daser, President of Digital Bridge Institute, spoke on the theme, ‘Africa’s Digital Destiny: Building Human Capital for a Connected Future,” where he stressed the need for digital literacy, noting that “digital literacy must become as fundamental as reading and writing,” and emphasized that Africa’s competitive advantage will come from its people rather than natural resources.

    Speaking on the sidelines, Adeshina reiterated his commitment to community service, saying: “I feel very excited in serving people in the community… people in Kiagbodo, people in Nigeria as a whole, in terms of education, in terms of support.”

    His wife, several friends and associates praised his dedication and character.

    Adeshina’s wife, Mrs. Olanike, expressed gratitude for the honour. “He has been a very meticulous person… Now adding this feather to his cap… we’re happy for this,” she said. 

    She added that external recognition often carried deeper meaning: “At times, you may not even recognize somebody in your household, but when people from outside now sees him and recognize him, it means so much.”

    A close associate, Ade Odunewu, who has known the awardee for more than five decades, offered a particularly emotional tribute.

    “I have been a friend of the awardee, Dr. Bade Adeshina in the last 51 years. We met at the University of Lagos, 1973-74 and since then, we have been very good friends. For me to follow him all the way from Lagos, you can see how close we are. We have been very close,” he said.

    Describing Adeshina, he added: “He is a very humble person. Very thorough and somebody who loves humanity… He is willing to do anything for a friend. It is an award that is worthy and that he deserves. I have witnessed some other awards that he has received in the past.”

    Odunewu also highlighted Adeshina’s traditional and professional standing.

    “He is the Sarakiyadeen of Oshogboland… a respected person. A thorough professional, a banker of repute for many years. We both run a company together. Most of the things I do, we are both involved. He is a worthy friend that you will be happy you have as a friend.”

    Explaining why Adeshina deserved the honorary doctorate, Odunwu said: “Oh, he deserves this award because he had taken part in the management and running of some universities before… He was in the council of LAUTECH… He worked together with the pro-chancellor of Edwin Clark University and that is where they met.”

    Confident in his friend’s future contributions, he added: “Anything he lays his hands on, he wants it to be successful… in the next two, three, four, five years, they will see the difference.”

    Echoing similar sentiments, longtime friend Sulaiman Babalola Esq. described him as “highly methodical, very tenacious and highly resourceful,” adding that the recognition from the Southsouth reflected his nationwide impact.

    Prince Labi Emokpare described him as “an articulate person, straightforward… He has done very well for humanity, for the community, for this country.”

    A family member, Oyekanmi, said he is “a mentor to many… he sets good example.”

    Dignitaries from various tertiary institutions such as the Delta State University, Abraka, Dennis Osadebey University, Novena University, Federal Polytechnic, Orogun, Delta State Maritime Institute, Burutu, the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Universities among others attended the ceremony, underscoring its significance. 

    The event marked another milestone for ECU and reaffirmed Adeshina’s lasting contributions to finance, management and national development.

  • Group urges UNN to release ex-minister’s certified records

    Group urges UNN to release ex-minister’s certified records

    The Joint Civil Society Front (JCSF), Enugu State, has urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to release the certified academic records of former Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

    ‎It called on the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, to step aside for an unfettered investigation into Nnaji’s allegation of records tampering.

    ‎At a briefing in Enugu, the group said the investigative panel set up by the Federal Ministry of Education should be allowed to do its work without interference.

    ‎Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa had constituted the panel to unravel claims that the UNN authorities altered Nnaji’s academic records, a controversy that contributed to his resignation from the Federal Executive Council.

    ‎The group argued that for the investigation to be credible, the Vice Chancellor must step aside, noting that allowing an official under probe to remain in office could lead to interference, intimidation, and destruction of evidence or manipulation of records.

    READ ALSO: Delivering in despair: Why maternal deaths remain high in Cross River

    ‎“We insist that the principle of impartiality requires that any individual whose actions are the subject of an inquiry should be suspended while the investigation is ongoing,” JCSF Coordinator, Hon. Ani Vincent, said.

    ‎The group also raised concerns over what it described as UNN’s “abrupt shift” in position regarding Chief Nnaji’s graduation status.

    ‎It recalled that the university, through the Registrar, had confirmed in 2023 that Nnaji graduated from the institution—a position the registrar reportedly stood by despite pressure.

    ‎JCSF stressed that Nnaji’s resignation as minister was not an admission of wrongdoing but “a vote for transparency and respect for due process”, arguing that Prof. Ortuanya should similarly step aside or be suspended by the ministry.

    ‎The group stated that Nnaji had formally requested the university to release certified copies of his transcripts and academic records, urging the institution to meet its obligation to provide them.

    ‎“It is the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Education, as the supervisory authority, to remove any obstruction that could impede the investigation,” Vincent added.

    ‎The organisation raised several questions it said Nigerians deserved answers to, including why UNN allegedly reversed its earlier confirmation of Nnaji’s graduation and how the records used by the Registrar in 2023 “suddenly vanished”.

    ‎According to JCSF, the investigative panel cannot work effectively while Prof. Ortuanya remains in office because “unfettered access to documents cannot be guaranteed”.

    ‎The group warned that if the Education Ministry fails to suspend the Vice Chancellor, it would mobilise mass protests across the Nsukka and Enugu campuses.

    ‎“This struggle is bigger than one man. It is about protecting the dignity of our universities, the future of our children, and the credibility of academic records in Nigeria,” the statement added.

    ‎The JCSF reaffirmed its demand for transparency, accountability and a university system free from political interference.

  • UNIBEN is keying into my template on TVET, says Tinubu

    UNIBEN is keying into my template on TVET, says Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended management of the University of Benin for keying into his administration’s template on technical and vocational education in tertiary institutions. 

    President Tinubu said the implementation of the Artisan Training Programme, in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund, reflected the spirit of transformation and education hallmark of his administration.

    Represented by Vice Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill, President Tinubu, commended UNIBEN Vice Chancellor, Professor Edoba Omoregie, for mainstreaming of Vocational literacy and introduction of various technical training programmes in the institution.

    He said the forward-looking initiative aligned with his administration’s programme designed to cultivate practical skills, enterprise and innovation. 

    On his part, the UNIBEN VC said the past eleven months have witnessed quantum leap in the successful delivery of set goals in the spheres of academics, infrastructural development, staff and students welfare and in community service.

    He said his five-point agenda constituted the road map of his administration.

    Prof. Omoregie said a 198 bagged the First Class degree out of a total of 14,803 graduands that were awarded first degree.

    He said 4,217 bagged the Second Class Upper, 7,928 bagged Second Class Lower while 578 got the Third Class.

    His words, “This result is a marked improvement over those of previous years and, therefore, indicative of the increased seriousness of staff and students in ensuring that our University marches on with vigour.

    “We have also greatly enhanced the University’s results management software through the acquision and deployment of a brand new intranet server system dedicated solely for the purpose.  

    “Students enrolment into the Nigerian Education Trust fund (NELFUND) rose astronomically to 6,560 in the 2024/2025 academic session. Enrolment is expected to double in the fresh 2025/2026 academic session, judging by the awareness created about the fund and ease of access.”

  • Minister’s relative debunks claim of plan to scrap Yoruba studies

    Minister’s relative debunks claim of plan to scrap Yoruba studies

    A relative of the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, Mrs. Motunrayo Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu, has dismissed fresh social media allegations that the Minister intends to scrap Yoruba studies in schools, describing the claims as politically motivated and misleading.

    Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu, who is the MD/CEO of Okay Group, faulted reports circulating online suggesting that the Minister is working to abolish the teaching of Yoruba in schools.

    In a statement, she described the allegations, initially triggered by a social media post, as baseless, divisive, and deliberately aimed at damaging the Minister’s public image.

    The allegation stemmed from a post in which a user accused Alausa of betraying Yoruba interests while questioning his cultural identity and even the names of his children. 

    The post quickly went viral, drawing comments that painted the Minister as disconnected from his roots.

    Responding, Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu stressed that Alausa’s background solidly affirms his Yoruba heritage.

    She said, “Dr. Alausa is my uncle. He is from Lagos State on both sides of the family. His mother has roots in both Lagos and Ilesa. He is a true Yoruba son, a true Lekombi Omo Eko.”

    She argued that those spreading misinformation were driven by frustration and political rivalry rather than genuine concerns about Yoruba education.

    “I don’t know why people are cursing him over a policy he knows nothing about. These attacks are not about education, they are political,” she said, adding that detractors were likely unsettled by the minister’s rising profile.

    Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu praised Alausa’s reform efforts in the education sector, describing him as a quiet achiever committed to improving policy and helping people without fanfare.

    “This is a man who supports people privately. Many look up to him in Lagos. He doesn’t announce his good deeds.”

    She also dismissed insinuations that his religious background played any role in the controversy, explaining that the family is deeply rooted in both Islam and Christianity.

    Calling for calm, she urged Nigerians to verify information rather than rely on divisive online narratives aimed at stirring ethnic sentiments.

    “People should be very careful. I am not speaking politics; this is about who Dr. Tunji Alausa truly is.”

  • Balami, Zulum meet in Maiduguri, announce scholarships for Borno youths

    Balami, Zulum meet in Maiduguri, announce scholarships for Borno youths

    The Founder of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Comrade Isaac Balami, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to Borno Governor Babagana Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri, where both parties announced new scholarship opportunities for youths in the state.

    Balami, who described the visit as a “homecoming,” said he returned to brief the Governor on the progress of IBUAM and explore ways the institution could impact young people in Borno.

     He was accompanied by the university’s Vice Chancellor, board members, friends, and partners.

    Speaking after the meeting, Balami said the engagement with Governor Zulum was “deeply personal,” recalling how a scholarship from the Borno State Government years ago opened doors that shaped his career in aviation.

    “This visit wasn’t just official; it was personal. I returned as a son of the land with a mission shaped by memory and conviction,” Balami said. “Education changed my life, and I am driven by the responsibility to extend that same lifeline to others.”

    Balami also announced fresh scholarships for indigent youths, pledging that at least 54 young people from Borno would be sponsored to study at IBUAM.

    He commended Governor Zulum for what he described as sincere discussions about the future of Borno youths, saying the governor demonstrated genuine commitment to supporting young people with high potential but limited resources.

    Zulum, in what many residents described as a remarkable response, also approved immediate scholarship slots for 54 indigent youths to undertake degree programmes in piloting, aeronautical engineering, and related fields at the university.

    Read Also: Zulum: worst of Boko Haram insurgency over

    Also in a statement on X and Facebook, the Governor applauded Balami’s vision and assured him of the State Government’s full cooperation. 

    The Governor also announced an immediate state-sponsored scholarship scheme for qualified youths to pursue degree programmes in piloting, aeronautical engineering, and related fields at IBUAM.

    “The selection process will prioritise indigent youths who demonstrate academic potential but lack the financial means to pursue such expensive programmes,” Zulum said.

    He directed the Commissioner for Education and the Executive Secretary of the State Scholarship Board to work directly with IBUAM to begin the selection and placement of candidates. He also warned against political interference in the process.

    “I don’t want anyone close to the governor, the deputy governor, or commissioners selected. The process should be purely on merit, and I will personally vet the final list,” the governor added.

    While thanking president Tinubu for approving a university instituted by his own “son”, the governor said the president has displayed his love for the nation by approving a university that will benefit all, especially young people. 

    Both the State Government and IBUAM say the partnership will help build a new generation of aircraft engineers, pilots, and aviation technicians from Borno State.