The federal government has announced a new policy barring acting heads of tertiary institutions from vying for substantive leadership positions while still in acting capacity.
Grassroots Parrot reports that the directive affects acting Vice Chancellors (VCs) of universities, Rectors of polytechnics, and Provosts of colleges of education across the country.
The announcement was contained in an official statement issued Monday by the Ministry of Education and signed by Boriowo Folasade, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa.
Dr. Alausa explained that the decision was prompted by consistent reports of abuse of the selection process by individuals holding acting positions, who allegedly use their temporary authority to influence the outcome in their favour.
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“In line with the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Education to promote equity, transparency, and integrity in the appointment process of Federal Tertiary Institutions, the Honourable Minister… has approved the implementation of a guiding policy on eligibility,” the statement read.
The policy now mandates that any acting VC, rector, or provost interested in applying for the substantive role must step down from their acting position.
They are permitted to do so before the expiration of their six-month, non-renewable acting tenure in order to become eligible.
“This policy has become necessary following a pattern of undue advantage observed over the years,” Alausa noted, stressing that the new rule aims to “eliminate this practice, ensure a level playing field for all qualified candidates, and strengthen institutional governance.”
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The ministry emphasized that the policy is a complement to the existing 2013 guidelines governing appointments in federal tertiary institutions and urged governing councils and other stakeholders to ensure full compliance.
“Governing councils, managements, and relevant stakeholders are hereby requested to ensure strict compliance with the new directive.”
“The Ministry appreciates the continued dedication and cooperation of stakeholders in upholding good governance and maintaining the integrity of leadership appointment processes within the education sector.”
“It is our belief that this policy will bring about the desired reforms and enhance public confidence in the selection of principal officers in our institutions,” the statement concludes.