Why Aisha Sani Maikurdi Was Removed As UniAbuja VC

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu On Thursday, February 6, 2025, removed Professor Aisha Sani Maikurdi as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University. Her removal came just over a month after she officially assumed office on January 1, 2025.

The Controversial Appointment

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to remove Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi from her role as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University, has sparked significant attention. The drama surrounding her removal began with her initial appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor in June 2024, which was met with controversy.

Allegations of irregularities in the selection process surfaced, with claims that the governing council had dismissed over 87 applications, leaving only three shortlisted candidates. Maikudi’s selection was seen by some as biased, leading to unrest within the academic community.

Maikudi’s Appointment and Short Tenure

Despite the controversy, Maikudi was confirmed as the substantive Vice-Chancellor on January 1, 2025. However, her tenure was unexpectedly cut short. On February 6, 2025, President Tinubu announced the dissolution of the university’s governing council and her removal from office. This decision was part of Tinubu’s broader strategy to revitalize Nigeria’s higher education system.

The Goal of the Restructuring

President Tinubu’s actions aim to bring dynamic leadership and accountability to Nigerian universities. His decision to remove Maikudi was part of an effort to strengthen governance and enhance academic excellence, aligning with the government’s vision for reform in the higher education sector. The leadership changes are expected to drive improved standards and practices at Yakubu Gowon University.

Other Significant Leadership Changes in Nigerian Universities

The restructuring did not end at Yakubu Gowon University. Several other federal universities have experienced leadership changes under President Tinubu’s directive:

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu was removed as Acting Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Oguejiofu T. Ujam was appointed as his successor for six months. Ujam will also not be eligible for the permanent position.

What’s Next For UniAbuja?

In place of Maikudi, Professor Lar Patricia Manko was appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor for a six-month term. However, Manko will not be eligible to apply for the permanent position once it becomes vacant. This move reflects the President’s commitment to ensuring that future leadership changes are in line with best practices and institutional goals.

Pro-Chancellorship Changes:

• Senator Lanre Tejuoso was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University, replacing the former Pro-Chancellor.
  
• Senator Joy Emordi will now serve as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
  
• Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo was appointed Pro-Chancellor of UNN, taking over from Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, who was reassigned to the University of Uyo.
  
• Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi was named Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lokoja, replacing Ojo.
  
• Senator Sani Stores is now the Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, succeeding Senator Emordi.
  
• Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

President Tinubu’s decisions reflect his administration’s determination to overhaul Nigeria’s higher education sector, ensuring leadership is accountable and effective. These changes, effective immediately, are part of a larger effort to strengthen governance, academic excellence, and overall institutional integrity across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. As these new appointments take effect, the future of these universities will depend on the implementation of reforms and the leadership strategies of the newly appointed officials.