Tinubu Sacks UNN VC, Reshuffles Leadership at Nigerian Universities

In a sweeping move to enhance governance across federal universities, President Bola Tinubu has announced significant leadership changes at several institutions, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu, who has been serving as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN, was dismissed prior to the completion of his term, which was set to end on February 14, 2025. His removal came as part of a broader reorganization aimed at improving university management nationwide.

Following Chigbu’s dismissal, Professor Oguejiofu T. Ujam has been appointed as the new Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN. Ujam will hold this position for six months, though he, like his predecessor, will not be eligible to apply for the permanent position once it becomes vacant.

The reshuffle also impacted other key university leadership positions. At the University of Abuja, President Tinubu removed Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi from her role as Vice-Chancellor. Maikudi’s replacement, Professor Lar Patricia Manko, will serve as Acting Vice-Chancellor for six months, also with the restriction of not being eligible to apply for the permanent role.

In addition to these changes, Tinubu appointed several new Pro-Chancellors to strengthen university governance across the country. Notable appointments include:

• Senator Lanre Tejuoso as the new Pro-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja).
• Senator Joy Emordi as Pro-Chancellor at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
• Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo as Pro-Chancellor of UNN.
• Gen. Ike Nwachukwu reassigned to the University of Uyo.
• Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi to the Pro-Chancellorship of Federal University of Lokoja.
• Senator Sani Stores appointed as Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education.
• Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi as the new Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka.

These leadership changes are effective immediately and reflect President Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of education and governance at Nigerian universities.