President Bola Tinubu has instructed a thorough reassessment of the governing boards of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, following concerns raised over the lack of federal character in the nominations.
The Federal Ministry of Education recently unveiled the nominees for chairmen, Pro-Chancellors, and board members of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
However, public feedback indicated discrepancies in regional representation, with some states receiving minimal nominations compared to others.
In response, President Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has mandated a comprehensive review of the nomination list.
This review aims to ensure strict adherence to the principle of federal character as enshrined in the constitution, while also prioritising national inclusivity.
Acknowledging the nationwide feedback, President Tinubu said his administration remains steadfast in upholding the principles of fairness and equity in governance.
The review process will strive to achieve balanced representation across all regions of the country, ensuring every part is adequately represented.
Onanuga’s statement reads:
“President Bola Tinubu has directed a total and comprehensive review of the recently announced governing boards of tertiary institutions in Nigeria before the inauguration and retreat being planned for the nominees.”
“The Federal Ministry of Education recently released names of nominees for chairmen, Pro-Chancellors, and members of the boards and councils of universities, Polytechnics, and colleges of education. It also announced that the inauguration and retreat for the nominees will take place on 31 May.
“However, public reactions showed that the nominations did not reflect the federal character of the country as some states got just one nomination, while some others got many. 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. The review will also take into consideration national spread and ensure every part of the country is adequately represented”, the statement concluded.