Education Minister Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa recently introduced a policy to ensure transparent leadership appointments in federal tertiary institutions.
The reform targets acting appointees who previously manipulated temporary roles to secure permanent positions, undermining fairness in selection processes.
Under the new rules, acting Vice Chancellors, Rectors, or Provosts cannot apply for substantive roles while serving temporarily.
However, those wishing to compete must resign before their six-month acting tenure ends, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates.
“This policy guarantees fairness and integrity by removing conflicts of interest during leadership appointments,” Alausa stated in Abuja on April 7, 2025.
The directive strengthens existing 2013 appointment guidelines, demanding strict compliance from governing councils, management teams, and other stakeholders.
To clarify procedures, we shared detailed implementation documents.
Specifically, these included Annex I, which outlines the new policy, and Annex II, which contains the 2013 guidelines.
Public reactions have been positive, with stakeholders calling the policy a critical step toward restoring trust in institutional governance.
Recent criticism over biased appointments in universities and colleges prompted the ministry to act swiftly, addressing systemic flaws.
By aligning with global best practices, Nigeria aims to foster merit-based leadership and improve public confidence in education institutions.
The ministry acknowledged stakeholders’ cooperation, emphasizing collective responsibility to uphold ethical standards in academic leadership selections.
Boriowo Folasade, the ministry’s spokesperson, expressed optimism that the policy will drive meaningful reforms across tertiary institutions.
Parents, students, and faculty have long demanded accountability, citing instances where acting leaders influenced appointments unfairly.
The policy’s release follows months of consultations with education experts, legal advisors, and civil society groups.
Advocates argue that transparent appointments will enhance institutional performance and reduce corruption in Nigeria’s education sector.
Moving forward, governing councils must conduct thorough screenings and adhere strictly to timelines outlined in the guidelines.
Failure to comply may result in sanctions, including dissolution of non-compliant councils or disciplinary action against officials.
The ministry urges all stakeholders to review the documents and collaborate in implementing these transformative changes effectively.
This story will be updated as institutions adapt and further feedback emerges from the education community.
