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Voice of African Universities Defends University of Abuja VC Amid Controversial Petition

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2 weeks ago

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A group, the Voice of African Universities (VAU) has labelled a petition submitted to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa, alleging a breach of federal guidelines in the appointment of Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, as baseless and archaic.

The group in a press statement sent to the press on Thursday and signed by its Director Public Relations, Jean Luck Aglogan, said the controversial petition hinges on a primitive argument that a Vice-Chancellor must possess 10 years of post-professorial experience.

“This outdated notion undermines the evolution of global academia, where merit and innovative leadership have become the hallmarks of university administration. The issue of years post professorial experience is an old thing as even in Nigeria, there are many universities whose Vice Chancellors were appointed without such clause and a typical example is the Usman Danfodio University Sokoto,” it said.

VAU emphasized that Professor Maikudi’s extensive leadership experience far surpasses the traditional requirement. “Her cumulative roles as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dean of the Faculty of Law, and Head of the Department of Public Law more than qualify her for the position,” the group argued stating that to insist on such limiting requirements in the 21st century is both regressive and counterproductive.

Highlighting Professor Maikudi’s international reputation and contributions to the evolution of the university of Abuja since assuming office, the group said, “under her leadership, the University of Abuja has gained visibility on the global stage. She represented the institution at conferences in Japan and Paris, effectively positioning it as a hub of excellence. Before her tenure, many didn’t even recognize the university’s potential.”

In an appeal to the minister, VAU urged the Minister to adopt a forward-thinking approach in handling the petition, stating that, “as a scholar with international exposure, particularly in the United States, the Minister understands the need for innovative leadership in academia. We call on him to revisit outdated laws like the 10-year post-professorial requirement, which exclude many of the brightest minds from contributing to university leadership,” the group said.

The VAU further alleged that the petition was driven by ulterior motives, accusing the Chairman of the Governing Council, Air Vice Marshal Saddiq Isma’ila Kaita (Rtd), of orchestrating a campaign to discredit Professor Maikudi. “It is no secret that Professor Maikudi’s refusal to succumb to Kaita’s militaristic style of governance has made her a target by him,” the group claimed.

They also criticized the broader trend of appointing retired military personnel as pro-chancellors of universities, stating that universities are centers of knowledge and innovation, not military barracks and as such the imposition of a rigid, hierarchical approach stifles academic freedom and development.

The group concluded by reaffirming its support for Professor Maikudi’s confirmation as the substantive Vice-Chancellor, expressing that by virtue of her education, experience, and vision, Professor Maikudi is the ideal leader for the University of Abuja.

“It is imperative that the Minister recognizes her contributions and elevates her to the position she rightfully deserves as the substantive vice chancellor of the university.”

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President Tinubu Appoints Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as Acting Accountant General of the Federation

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43 minutes ago

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December 10, 2024

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF). This appointment will take effect immediately following the pre-retirement leave of the current AGF, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein.

In a statement released by the Presidency, it was announced that Ogunjimi’s appointment is part of President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to ensure continuity and efficiency in the nation’s financial management. “YORUBA LOKAN: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation,” the statement read.

Mr. Ogunjimi, a seasoned financial expert, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has previously served in various capacities within the Ministry of Finance, demonstrating a strong commitment to transparency and accountability in public financial management. His appointment is expected to bolster the government’s efforts to enhance fiscal discipline and improve the management of public funds.

Dr. Madein, the outgoing AGF, has been commended for her service and contributions to the nation’s financial sector. Her tenure saw significant reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the country’s financial management systems. “Her leadership has been instrumental in driving key financial reforms, and her legacy will continue to influence the sector positively,” the statement noted.

The transition is expected to be smooth, with Ogunjimi taking over the reins to continue the implementation of ongoing financial reforms. “His appointment will take effect immediately after the pre-retirement leave of the current Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein,” the statement confirmed.

President Tinubu expressed confidence in Ogunjimi’s ability to lead the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) effectively. “Mr. Ogunjimi’s extensive experience and dedication to public service make him well-suited for this critical role,” the President remarked.

The appointment has been well-received by stakeholders in the financial sector, who anticipate that Ogunjimi’s leadership will bring about further improvements in the management of the nation’s finances. “We look forward to continued progress under his stewardship,” a senior official in the Ministry of Finance commented.

 

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3 Brigade team wins Nigerian Navy logistics college sports competition

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59 minutes ago

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December 10, 2024

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The 3rd Brigade Nigerian Army Team (3 Stallion) on Monday emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 Nigerian Navy Logistics College Sports Week in Kano.

The event, which was held at the Nigerian Navy Logistics College in Dawakin-Tofa Local Government featured teams from the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Police, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The competition featured various sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, scrabble, chess, badminton, table tennis, tug-of-war, and track and field athletics.

This paper reports that at the conclusion of the competition, Three Stallion secured the top spot with an impressive haul of 10 gold, six silver, and four bronze medals.

Speaking at the event, Brig. Gen. Ahmed Tukur, Commander of 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, expressed pride in the athletes’ perseverance, exceptional performance, and dedication.

He assured them of the Brigade’s continued support and presented a token of appreciation in recognition of their achievement.

Tukur also commended other participants for their performance and sportsmanship.

He further lauded the Nigerian Navy for organizing the competition.

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Minimum Wage: Kano Water Board Staff Embark on Indefinite Strike

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2 hours ago

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December 10, 2024

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Kano State Water Board staff have embarked on an indefinite strike over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage.

The Chairman of the Kano State Water Board Union, Comrade Najib Abdussalam, stated this during a chat with Nigerian Tracker.

Comrade Najib said all parastatals in Kano have received their minimum wage, with the exception of Kano Water Board staff. As such, they are embarking on the indefinite strike.

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Comrade Najib added that they entered into an agreement with the Managing Director of the board, Engineer Ahmad Garba Bichi, to delay the payment in order to effect it on the 20th of December. However, they just woke up today and saw the old minimum wage.

When asked about the fact that Kano Water Board is a revenue-generating agency and there is no tariff water review, there is a way for the government to help them have the salary before the tariff review, but to no avail.

Comrade Najib added that if they are to wait to be paid the minimum wage from the revenue they generate, the majority of Kano residents are not consuming water from the Kano State Water Board.

 

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