Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concern over the increasing number of first-class graduates being produced by private universities in Nigeria.
Speaking at an event in honor of Prof. Andy Egwunyenga, the outgoing Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, warned that such trends, if replicated by public universities without proper regulation, could undermine the integrity of academic achievements.
The ceremony, held at DELSU’s Abraka campus, saw Osodeke reflecting on the broader state of education in Nigeria. He lamented that students graduating from primary and secondary schools with high grades often lack adequate knowledge and skills.
The ASUU president also raised alarm over the ongoing “mass exodus” of skilled Nigerian professionals to countries offering better work conditions, linking the trend to systemic failures in education and other sectors. He cited incidents such as building collapses as evidence of institutional shortcomings.
“There was a time when academics enjoyed a decent quality of life,” Osodeke said. “Now, the situation has changed, and unions must renew efforts to advocate for fair conditions. ASUU will continue to champion justice and equity in academia.”
Another ASUU member, Prof. Omotoye Olorode, presented a paper titled “New University Curricula (CCMAS): Context and Matters Arising,” criticizing the CCMAS as a tool of foreign influence designed to disrupt Nigeria’s academic frameworks. He argued it perpetuates a system where Africans are relegated to supporting the agricultural needs of developed nations.
“Nigeria has never allocated more than seven percent of its budget to education, far below UNESCO’s recommendation of 26 percent,” Olorode noted. “This reflects the stagnation in our education sector.”
The event also celebrated Egwunyenga’s achievements as vice chancellor. DELSU ASUU Chairman, Dr. Paul Opone, commended Egwunyenga for his leadership, stating, “Since 2019, the institution has struggled with poor leadership. Prof. Egwunyenga met and exceeded the expectations of ASUU and the university community, earning widespread respect.”
In his response, Egwunyenga expressed gratitude for the accolades, crediting his leadership style to the themes in Festus Iyayi’s book, Demons and Monsters. He highlighted the support he received from all parts of Delta State during his tenure.
“This is the first time ASUU has celebrated a DELSU lecturer in this manner,” Opone added. “Prof. Egwunyenga truly deserves the recognition.”
