Politicians now dictate academic staff recruitment – ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed deep concern over the increasing politicization of academic staff recruitment in Nigerian universities. This trend, according to the union, is severely compromising the quality of tertiary education. Prof. Timothy Namo, the union's Zonal Coordinator for the Bauchi Zone, spoke about this issue at a press conference held at the University of Jos.

He highlighted that the prolonged absence of recruitment had led to significant gaps within the university system. Moreover, Namo accused politicians of meddling in the hiring of academic staff, bringing in lists of candidates who were often unqualified. ASUU's President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, described this situation as dangerous to the country's educational standards.

He pointed out that some seasoned non-academic staff were being pushed into academic roles without the necessary training and qualifications. Piwuna emphasized that adherence to due process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the university system. He also expressed worry over the lack of communication between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and university lecturers, noting that the union had not had a direct interaction with the president for three years.

Piwuna urged government bodies at federal, state, and local levels to shift their focus towards addressing citizens' needs and prioritizing public welfare.