TETFund Criticizes Appointment of Vice Chancellors as Election Returning Officers, Advocates for University Autonomy

In a recent address at the 36th convocation of the Federal University of Technology in Owerri, Imo State, Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), strongly criticized the practice of appointing Vice Chancellors as returning officers in elections. He also called for the urgent need to strengthen the autonomy of Nigerian universities to protect them from political interference.

Echono’s Stance on Vice Chancellors Serving as Returning Officers:
Echono voiced concerns over the current situation where Vice Chancellors of public universities are tasked with overseeing elections. According to him, such appointments compromise the independence of university leadership, which is essential for efficient governance. He recommended a randomized selection process for returning officers, excluding Vice Chancellors, and suggested involving staff unions in the nomination process.

The Need for University Autonomy in Nigeria:
Echono emphasized the importance of strengthening the autonomy of Nigerian universities to ensure that they are shielded from external political pressures. He highlighted that excessive interference from the government undermines academic freedom and stifles innovation. Achieving the right balance between governmental oversight and institutional independence is crucial for fostering progress within Nigeria’s higher education sector.

Leadership and Governance Challenges in Nigerian Universities:
In his keynote address, Echono discussed the ongoing leadership and governance challenges faced by Nigerian universities. He pointed out that ineffective governance structures often result in bureaucratic inefficiencies, delayed decision-making, and a lack of responsiveness to evolving academic needs. Additionally, he noted that insufficient accountability and transparency in resource allocation are significant barriers to the development of public universities.

Call for Transparent and Effective Governance:
Echono stressed that strong, transparent leadership is the cornerstone of any university’s success. He called for university leaders to act as role models, guiding their institutions with integrity and vision. He also warned that failure to address governance issues would further hinder the growth and effectiveness of Nigerian higher education.

The Role of Effective Governance in Nigeria’s University System:
In conclusion, Echono stated that the future of Nigeria’s public universities hinges on effective leadership and governance. He stressed the need for leadership that is both responsible and visionary, capable of steering institutions toward sustainable growth and academic excellence.

As the Nigerian education sector continues to face significant challenges, strengthening the autonomy of universities and addressing governance issues remain critical to fostering a more efficient and innovative higher education system. Echono’s remarks underline the importance of political independence in universities to ensure they thrive in their mission to provide quality education.