As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, university workers have expressed grave concerns over the state of the nation’s educational system, calling for urgent reforms and improved funding. The workers, including key union leaders, have issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, threatening an indefinite strike if these issues are not addressed.
Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), described Nigeria’s education sector as being in “complete ruin.” He pointed to the country’s continued underfunding of tertiary institutions, a trend that has led to deteriorating infrastructure and a poor learning environment. “In the 1960s and 1970s, Nigeria attracted lecturers from around the world. Today, we admit students with scores as low as 35 in entrance exams like JAMB. There is truly nothing to celebrate about our education system,” he remarked.
Similarly, Mohammed Ibrahim, National President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), criticized the government’s focus on expanding the number of universities without corresponding investment in quality teaching and infrastructure. “While we boast of many institutions, the government is falling short in funding them adequately. Both students and staff are being shortchanged in the process,” he said.
Despite these concerns, some experts highlighted areas of progress. Dr. Gever Celestine, a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, noted that Nigerian-trained professionals are thriving internationally, a testament to the system’s potential. However, he called for increased government investment in infrastructure and teacher welfare to sustain this progress.
Dr. Oladipo Kolawole of Adeleke University echoed these sentiments, urging the government to meet UNESCO’s recommendation of allocating at least 26% of the national budget to education. He also emphasized the need to leverage technology for educational delivery, particularly in remote areas.
The calls for reform come as the education sector faces growing pressure to improve in the face of declining resources and increasing demands. The government has been urged to take immediate action to prevent further deterioration and avoid potential disruptions from a looming strike.
