Nigeria: Transparent VC selection boosts university growth, governance
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria
Research presented in Abuja shows that fair and transparent vice-chancellor selection processes directly improve university governance, stability, and development outcomes.
The findings were unveiled June 25, 2026, at a public lecture by the Abuja Leadership and Governance Centre, University of Abuja. The lecture, themed “Leadership Selection Process and Governance of Federal Universities in Nigeria (1993–2024),” linked merit-based recruitment to stronger institutional performance and public trust.
The study found that universities using transparent, accountable and inclusive leadership selection consistently record better governance outcomes and stronger institutional stability. VC’s who emerge through credible, competitive processes are better positioned to promote research, encourage collaboration, and create a better environment for teaching and learning.
TETFund Executive Secretary Arch. Sonny Echono warned that political interference, nepotism and corruption are undermining academic excellence and good governance in public universities.
“Political interference, nepotism and corruption remain among the greatest threats to good governance in our universities. When leadership appointments are influenced by factors other than merit and competence, the entire institution suffers,” he said.
Echono called for a sweeping overhaul of the VC appointment process, arguing that leadership determined by political interests threatens the quality of graduates, research output, and national development.
with academic staff, students, alumni and industry representatives and use of technology like online application portals, e-voting, virtual town halls, and digital reporting.
of appointments and governance, plus credible grievance channels for stakeholders.
University of Abuja VC Prof. Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi echoed the concerns, cautioning that some governing councils are politicizing VC appointments. He stressed the need for academic leadership based on merit, competence and integrity.
The Abuja Leadership Centre Director, Prof. Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman, said the centre was established by TETFund to promote leadership excellence and strengthen governance in Nigeria. A panel of experts at the event also discussed ways to restore credibility and meritocracy to university leadership selection.
The lecture reflects growing calls in the education sector to insulate universities from political pressure and ensure leadership positions go to the most qualified candidates, not the most connected.
