Tinubu Unveils New University Governing Councils in Major Education Reform

Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant move aimed at strengthening governance and fostering academic excellence within the nation’s tertiary education sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of new members to the governing councils of three prominent federal universities: the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka.

The appointments, announced Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, come months after the dissolution of UNIABUJA’s governing council and the removal of its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Maikudi, in February 2025, amidst controversies surrounding her eligibility and appointment. This latest action signals President Tinubu’s commitment to a sweeping reform of the federal university system, emphasizing accountability and institutional management.

The newly constituted councils reflect a broad regional representation, bringing in experienced individuals from across the country to guide these vital institutions.
For the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), the new governing council members are:

1.Prof. Rosemary Iriowen Egonmwan (South-South)

2.Dr. Adedeji Adefuye (South-West)

3.Prof. Sarki Abba Abdulkadir (North-West)

4.Prof. Aminu Mohammed Dukku (North-East)

At the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), two new members have been appointed to its governing council:

1.Rt. Hon. Barr. Ogbonna Eugene Odo (South-East)

2.Muhammad Inuwa Tahir, mni (North-West)

And for Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, the newly appointed members are:

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1.Dr. Nkem Okeke (South-East) – Notably a former Deputy Governor of Anambra State.

2.Ofoke Chukwuma Charles Ugbala (South-East)

3.Dame Amina Patrick Yakowa (North-West)

4.Nojeeb Oriola Agunbiade (South-West)

These strategic appointments are expected to usher in a new era of leadership and robust governance, crucial for advancing academic standards and overall development in Nigeria’s federal universities. The administration’s focus remains on repositioning higher education to meet national development goals and foster a conducive environment for learning and research.