Minister Alausa Calls for Diversification in University Funding

On Tuesday, at the National Advancement Forum 2026, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, urged Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian public universities to diversify their funding sources, stating that reliance solely on government allocations is inadequate for sustaining universities and ensuring long-term academic excellence. He highlighted that only four out of Nigeria's 68 federal universities are effectively utilizing alternative funding opportunities, including research grants and alumni contributions.

Alausa emphasized the need for university leaders to prioritize resource mobilization and build relationships with various stakeholders, including alumni and industry partners. He reassured that the call for diversified funding does not imply a reduction in government support, as the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown commitment through increased budgetary provisions and infrastructure investments.

Alausa directed that Advancement Offices report directly to Vice-Chancellors and that Directors of Advancement should have a minimum tenure of five years to foster long-term donor relationships.