The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed dissatisfaction with the infrastructural condition of public universities in Nigeria. The union holds the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, and the current governor, Yemi Cardoso, responsible for halting a crucial university support fund. Former CBN governor Lamido Sanusi originally set up this fund to alleviate infrastructural challenges across the country’s higher institutions.
Discontinued Support Fund for Universities
ASUU National President, Emmanuel Osodeke, voiced his frustration during an interview with Channels Television’s Inside Sources. He explained that Sanusi’s leadership directed the CBN intervention fund towards several federal and state universities, significantly improving their infrastructure within four years. However, after Emefiele assumed office, the disbursement of this fund came to an abrupt end, leading to the deterioration of educational facilities.
Current CBN Governor Criticised
Osodeke further criticised Yemi Cardoso, the current CBN governor, for not prioritising the revival of this fund. According to him, Cardoso, who has been in office for a year, has not made any efforts to address the funding crisis in universities. Osodeke highlighted the Community Social Responsibility (CSR) fund, which reportedly remains available but the new leadership has not utilised it.
Universities Increasing Fees Due to Funding Cuts
As government funding for education decreases, universities across Nigeria have shifted the financial burden to students by increasing tuition fees. This has triggered protests at several institutions, including the University of Ibadan, the University of Benin, and the University of Lagos, where students have expressed their discontent with the fee hikes.
Protests Across Nigerian Universities
The financial strain on students has led to demonstrations in various federal universities, where they have called for more government intervention and a reduction in tuition fees. ASUU continues to push for the restoration of the CBN’s intervention funds as a way to relieve students and improve the overall condition of university infrastructure.
The Need for Immediate Action
ASUU’s demands for the restoration of funds and proper infrastructural development come at a time when Nigerian public universities are struggling to maintain basic standards. The union insists that without adequate funding and support, the future of higher education in Nigeria is at risk.
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