President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough reassessment of the newly announced governing bodies of higher education institutions in Nigeria before the official inauguration and retreat planned for the appointees.
Recently, the Federal Ministry of Education unveiled the list of candidates for chairpersons, Pro-Chancellors, and members of university, polytechnic, and college of education boards and councils. The ministry also disclosed that the inauguration and retreat for these appointees are scheduled for May 31.
However, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, in a statement released on Thursday, acknowledged public concerns indicating that the nominations did not adequately represent the federal character of the nation. Some states received only one nomination, while others received numerous appointments, leading to calls for a review.
“In directing a complete review of the list of members, President Tinubu acknowledges the feedback across the country.
“President Tinubu is committed to ensuring strict compliance with the principle of federal character as entrenched in the constitution,” Onanuga said.
He added that the review will also take into consideration national spread and ensure every part of the country is adequately represented.
Recall that the Bauchi chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) expressed disapproval on Tuesday regarding the selection of governing boards for Federal Tertiary Institutions, suggesting that the administration led by Bola Tinubu should consider reinstating the previously dissolved members instead.