Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara has urged state governments to create an enabling environment that supports and sustains university autonomy.
Wabara made the appeal in Lagos at the Seventh Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria, on Wednesday.
The conference had the theme: “Effective University Governance: Role of Stakeholders”.
Represented by Dr Tunji Abayomi, Pro-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Ondo State, Wabara said that university autonomy was not merely a goal but a necessity for the advancement of education and society.
“By embracing and nurturing autonomy, we can empower our universities to become centres of excellence that drive national development and global competitiveness.
“In Nigeria, the pursuit of university autonomy is not without its challenges.
“State-owned universities often face constraints related to funding, regulatory frameworks and political interference,” he said.
He, however, said that the challenges were surmountable.
“Through concerted efforts and strategic partnerships, we can create an environment where our universities can thrive, innovate and contribute to a brighter future for all,” Wabara said.
He added that university autonomy was the bedrock of academic freedom, innovation, and excellence.
“It is the principle that allows universities to govern themselves, make decisions independently, and chart their paths in pursuit of knowledge and societal advancement.
“In an era marked by rapid technological changes, global competition and societal challenges, the autonomy of our universities is more important than ever,” Wabara said.
He proposed six key actions toward establishing and sustaining autonomy in state-owned universities.
Wabara listed the actions to include strengthening legal frameworks and governance structures.
“Others include administrative autonomy, building capacity, financial autonomy, and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.
“State governments should establish strong and independent university councils with the authority to make key decisions on university governance, finance and administration.
“Through state houses of assembly, we must advocate policies and legislation that enshrine the principles of university autonomy.
“Furthermore, in granting absolute financial autonomy to state-owned universities, state governments must implement annual mandatory financial audits by an independent external auditor,” Wabara said.
He said that by following these steps, state-owned universities could achieve a balanced and effective level of autonomy that would promote innovation, efficiency and accountability.
“However, implementing these steps requires a coordinated effort among state governments, university leadership and other relevant stakeholders.
“It will help to create an environment where universities can thrive independently and contribute effectively to the development of Nigeria,” Wabara said.