The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Sunday Echono, has frowned at the growing influence of politics and corruption in the appointment of Vice Chancellors in Nigerian universities, warning that it could impede on the quality of higher education in the country.
Mr. Echono made the observation on Saturday at the 36th convocation lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, where he highlighted how political interference and financial incentives are eroding the sanctity of university leadership selection processes.
Speaking at the event, the ES said “The sponsorship of the selection process of Vice Chancellors by politicians has made university administration increasingly local.
“Our universities have become increasingly local, with the majority of academic and non-academic staff sponsored by local politicians and other leaders from the host communities.
“Political affiliation has also assumed overarching importance in the selection process,” he lamented.
The TETFund boss further revealed that the financial stakes tied to these positions have emboldened contractors to back candidates for Vice Chancellors in exchange for patronage in procurement processes.
“Principal officers exert enormous influence, especially in procurement (Tender Board) and payments for projects, goods, and services. Contractors have been known to sponsor candidates for Vice Chancellor in return for patronage.”
Echono, who was honoured with the statue of “Macho Man,” a symbol of his significant contributions to FUTO’s development and a gesture of appreciation from the university community said the tide must be rejected to restore credibility to the leadership selection process, stressing that a greater autonomy for universities would shield them from political interference.
He added that there was the urgent need for decision-makers to uphold transparency and implement clear criteria in selecting university leaders.
He said “The autonomy of universities needs to be strengthened to minimise political interference”, adding that accountability at every level of the selection process is vital for fostering integrity and meritocracy.
