…backs home-grown candidate

The University of Abuja Alumni Association has urged the Governing Council of the institution to uphold transparency and resist all forms of external interference in the ongoing process to appoint a new Vice-Chancellor.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Association’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rauf Olaiya Sarafadeen-Kunle, on behalf of the National President, the Alumni emphasized that the credibility of the process will determine the institution’s integrity and future direction.

Describing the Vice-Chancellor’s position as the most critical office in the University system, the Association said the leadership choice would shape academic vision, administrative culture, and institutional growth.

The Alumni Association therefore emphasized that the outcome of the process must reflect transparency and be seen by all stakeholders as fair and legitimate.

“The Council must resist all external pressures, undue influences, or any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the selection process. The integrity of the University of Abuja is far more important than the ambition of any individual or interest group,” the statement read in part.

The Association also cautioned the Federal Ministry of Education to desist from actions capable of derailing the University’s growth and development, alleging that past interferences from the Ministry have disrupted administrative stability without due process, leaving negative precedents in the institution’s history.

While reaffirming its commitment to the ideals of fairness and institutional loyalty, the Alumni Association threw its weight behind the appointment of a home-grown professor as the next Vice-Chancellor.

It argued that the University of Abuja has produced world-class scholars, administrators, and researchers who have demonstrated loyalty and contributed significantly to its progress.

“It is only natural that such individuals, who understand the University’s history, challenges, structures, and potentials, be given due consideration for its highest leadership position,” the statement said.

The Alumni further clarified that its position is not based on sentiment but on the conviction that internal continuity and familiarity with the University’s system will enhance effective leadership and sustainable growth.

“The Association emphasises that being home grown is not the sole criterion. The next Vice Chancellor must also be the most qualified, most competent, and most administratively capable among the applicants. The University needs a leader who embodies academic excellence, administrative experience, visionary leadership, impeccable character, and a proven track record of service to the University community. Only such a person can take the University of Abuja to its next phase of development,” the statement noted.

The body also urged members of the University community, including staff, students, and alumni, to remain calm and avoid actions that could heat up the system, stressing that peace and stability must remain the priority throughout the process.

The Association commended the outgoing administration for its contributions and urged the incoming leadership to consolidate on existing achievements while driving innovation, discipline, and national relevance.

It reaffirmed its commitment to defending the integrity of the institution and ensuring that the University of Abuja continues on a path of meritocracy, accountability, and academic excellence.