Revered historian and foremost academic, Professor Toyin Falola, has called on public universities in Nigeria to prioritise efficient stakeholder participation which is necessary in guaranteeing a robust feedback mechanism in university governance, noting that this would foster diverse perspectives in decision-making.
The distinguished university professor gave this submission while speaking on university governance in Nigeria on Saturday in Abuja at a leadership series put together in honor of the outgoing vice chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah.
According to Falola, “In order to enhance governance, it is imperative to incorporate stakeholders into the governance process. A university setting encompasses various stakeholders, including students, faculty, administrative staff, alumni, and the broader community. Engaging these groups in governance processes in a proactive manner ensures the inclusion of diverse perspectives in decision-making, thereby fostering a more comprehensive and efficient governance framework. Implementing strategies such as conducting regular stakeholder consultations, facilitating participatory decision-making forums, and establishing effective feedback mechanisms can cultivate a strong sense of ownership and dedication towards the institution’s objectives. Furthermore, the implementation of advisory boards comprising individuals from industry, government, and civil society can enhance the governance process by incorporating external perspectives and expertise. This will effectively align university operations with the demands and expectations of society.
“In addition, it is imperative to foster a culture that prioritizes ongoing improvement and ethical governance. The task at hand encompasses the establishment of elevated benchmarks for integrity and professionalism in university governance, as well as the ongoing evaluation and enhancement of governance practices. Consistent training programmes designed for university governors and administrators, focusing on optimal practices in higher education governance, ethics, and leadership, have the potential to augment their competencies and dedication to upholding good governance. Improving governance in Nigerian universities is a complex undertaking that necessitates a blend of structural changes, technological incorporation, and active involvement of stakeholders. Universities can enhance their governance practices by implementing clear governance structures, adopting technology to enhance efficiency and transparency, and fostering widespread stakeholder engagement. Consequently, this will enhance their ability to effectively address the challenges of the 21st century and make valuable contributions to the educational, social, and economic progress of Nigeria. The adoption of a comprehensive approach not only bolsters the internal strength of institutions but also elevates their credibility and reputation on a wider level.”
In his historical mapping of university governance in Nigeria, Falola acknowledges the role of the National Universities Commission (NUC). “The role of the National Universities Commission (NUC) in shaping university governance in Nigeria has been of significant importance. The NUC, in its capacity as the regulatory authority for higher education in Nigeria, plays a crucial role in establishing standards, ensuring quality, and offering guidelines for university operations. These functions are essential for effective governance. Nevertheless, the role of the National Urban Council (NUC) can be perceived as having both positive and negative implications. While it aids in the standardization and enhancement of educational practices nationwide, it also consolidates authority, potentially constraining the independence of individual institutions and impeding innovation. One of the primary concerns in the governance of Nigerian universities pertains to the delicate equilibrium between autonomy and accountability. Universities must possess the autonomy to foster innovation and adjust to evolving educational requirements,” he said.
Falola however warns that the oversight functions of government regulatory agencies should not affect academic freedom and institutional autonomy. “Optimal results are achieved through the establishment of a collaborative partnership, wherein policies and regulations are formulated through consultations with university stakeholders. Additionally, it is crucial to acknowledge the shared objectives of improving educational quality and making meaningful contributions to national development.
“The intricate and diverse nature of the university autonomy and administration in Nigeria is influenced by national education policies. These policies, which are formulated at the national level, frequently seek to tackle overarching educational objectives such as enhancing educational accessibility, enhancing the calibre of higher education, and ensuring that educational outcomes are in line with the needs of national development. Nevertheless, the execution of these policies may have substantial implications for university autonomy, which pertains to the institution’s ability to govern itself without external intervention, specifically in academic, administrative, and financial affairs.
“The national education policies in Nigeria typically include guidelines regarding funding, administrative framework, academic benchmarks, and mechanisms for ensuring accountability. Although these policies aim to improve the educational environment, they may occasionally infringe upon the autonomy of universities. For example, the implementation of policies that prescribe specific curricular requirements or standardize degree programmes nationwide can restrict a university’s capacity to customize its offerings to particular local needs or areas of expertise. This situation can pose significant limitations for universities that aspire to foster innovation or specialize in specialized fields that may not receive priority within national policy frameworks,” he cautioned.
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