By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Professor Ndidi Ngwuluka of the University of Jos has described Nigeria’s university system as one trapped in systemic collapse, with corruption, poor governance, and the abandonment of merit contributing to its continued deterioration.
She made the remarks during her valedictory lecture titled “ And You, Bitrus: The Betrayal of the Nigerian University System”, delivered at the University of Jos,where she served as Professor of Naturalpolyceutics/Pharmaceutical Quality in the Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
According to her, the metaphor “Bitrus” symbolized the various forces responsible for dragging the Nigerian university system downward, including political interference, underfunding, and the erosion of institutional integrity.
Professor Ngwuluka stated that the Nigerian university has become a place where corruption is rampant and merit is sacrificed on the altar of favoritism, bureaucracy, and inefficiency.
She said, “This political interference results in leadership that lacks vision or the capacity to drive meaningful change. The focus shifts, and universities become underfunded, creating an environment where the quality of education becomes secondary to political and administrative interests.”
She lamented the growing influence of government in university affairs, particularly in the appointment and employment of university leaders and staff, noting that such appointments have become politicized, with key academic positions filled by individuals based on political loyalty rather than merit.
Professor Ngwuluka stressed that addressing these systemic issues must begin with acknowledging the decay within the system and choosing integrity over silence. She called for the restoration of academic autonomy, reforms in appointments and performance evaluations, and adequate funding and investment in infrastructure.
She further emphasized the need to foster a culture of research and innovation at all levels, encouraging both students and lecturers to engage in critical inquiry and the exploration of new ideas.
Also speaking at the event, Professor Joash Amupitan, who represented the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, noted a significant disconnect between universities, research, the industry, and even local communities.
“The title serves as a poignant reminder that our individual and collective actions shape the trajectory of our institutions. It calls us to recommit to the values of integrity, accountability, and excellence in education.” He stated.
