The Registrar of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Mr. Mansur Adeleke Alfanla, has voiced concerns about the current system of financial oversight in Nigerian public universities. He argues that having multiple government agencies involved creates inconsistencies and inefficiencies, advocating instead for a single designated body to handle these responsibilities. His concerns extend to funding challenges, security issues on campus, and the ongoing problem of brain drain.
- Current multi-agency oversight creates inconsistencies and inefficiencies.
- A single agency would streamline the process and improve transparency.
- Concerns raised about inadequate funding, campus security, and brain drain.
Call for Centralized Financial Oversight
Mr. Alfanla believes that the current system, where various agencies like the National Assembly, Accountant General, Auditor General, NUC, and Federal Ministry of Education all audit university finances, leads to duplication and conflicting findings. A single agency, he argues, would simplify the process, ensure consistent application of policies, and improve overall transparency. This centralized approach could also help address the discrepancies between agencies, where one might approve an expenditure while another flags it as incorrect.
Funding and Security Challenges
Beyond financial oversight, the Registrar also highlighted the perennial issue of underfunding in public universities, expressing hope for future improvements. He also raised concerns about security on the UNILORIN campus, citing incidents of cattle herders encroaching on university land and destroying crops. Mr. Alfanla shared a personal experience of losing a bean crop due to this issue, emphasizing the need for better security measures to protect university property and staff investments.
Brain Drain and National Development
The Registrar expressed his worries about the increasing brain drain affecting Nigerian universities. He noted that the “Japa” phenomenon, where professionals leave the country for better opportunities elsewhere, impacts not only UNILORIN but numerous institutions across Nigeria. He called on the government to address the root causes of this issue, emphasizing the need for professionals to contribute to Nigeria’s development rather than building other economies. While acknowledging the government’s role in these challenges, he urged lecturers to remain committed and patient, emphasizing the importance of collective sacrifice for national progress.
UNILORIN’s Proactive Approach to Staff Welfare
Mr. Alfanla commended UNILORIN’s management for its proactive engagement with labor unions and prioritization of staff welfare. He highlighted initiatives like the tuition waiver for staff children and opportunities for local and international training, suggesting that this focus on welfare contributes to better service delivery and uninterrupted academic sessions. He implied that a similar approach at the national level could help mitigate strike actions and retain talent within the country.
Looking Ahead
Mr. Alfanla’s call for a single financial oversight agency reflects broader concerns about transparency and efficiency in the management of public universities. His comments on funding, security, and brain drain highlight the challenges facing higher education in Nigeria. Addressing these concerns will be crucial for ensuring the continued growth and development of the nation’s human capital.
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