By Bayero Ade
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has voiced its concern over the increasing number of first-class graduates being produced by private universities in Nigeria.
Speaking at an event in honor of Prof. Andy Egwunyenga’s successful tenure as Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed skepticism about the trend. The event was held at the DELSU campus in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.
Osodeke warned that if public universities adopt similar practices without proper regulation, it could compromise the integrity of academic standards. He also criticized the quality of education at the foundational levels, stating, “Primary and secondary schools are now churning out graduates with excellent grades but insufficient knowledge.”
The ASUU leader further highlighted the issue of brain drain, noting the mass migration of skilled workers to countries with better living and working conditions. He linked this trend to systemic failings within Nigerian institutions, pointing to incidents like building collapses as evidence of declining professional standards.
“The struggle for academics to enjoy a decent standard of living once achieved some success, but the current situation calls for renewed efforts. Our union must continue the fight for fairness and improved conditions for all,” Osodeke stated.
Prof. Omotoye Olorode, another ASUU member, also spoke at the event, addressing the topic, “New University Curricula (CCMAS): Context and Matters Arising.” He criticized the newly introduced curricula, describing it as an imperialist agenda designed to destabilize Nigeria’s academic structures and perpetuate dependency on developed nations.
Olorode also lamented Nigeria’s low investment in education, pointing out that UNESCO recommends allocating 26% of a nation’s budget to education, while Nigeria has consistently allocated less than 7%.
Dr. Paul Opone, Chairman of DELSU ASUU, commended Egwunyenga for his leadership, stating that the university had lacked effective leadership before his tenure began in 2019. According to Opone, Egwunyenga’s achievements had earned him widespread admiration from both ASUU and the university community.
“This is the first time ASUU has honored a lecturer at DELSU with such a celebration. Prof. Egwunyenga has exceeded expectations,” Opone remarked.
In response, Egwunyenga expressed gratitude for the accolades, attributing his leadership approach to insights gained from Festus Iyayi’s book, Demons and Monsters. He noted that the book’s narratives influenced his efforts to foster progress and accountability at DELSU.
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