Increased Funding Crucial for Nigeria's Public Universities

Abayomi, the Pro-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), stated that increased government allocations could significantly improve the fortunes of public universities in Nigeria. He outlined the university's internal efforts to address funding challenges, such as mobilizing resources to repair the Senate Building and constructing a legacy hostel for students.

Abayomi noted that while the government is a major stakeholder in funding, there is often a lack of commitment to adequately support universities after their establishment. He emphasized that education is an investment in development and urged state governments to prioritize funding for education, research, and development.

Abayomi recalled his shock at the infrastructural challenges when he became Chancellor in 2018, including the inability to afford a photocopying machine. He mentioned that school fees had been increased modestly to improve facilities, with current fees still among the lowest for state universities.

He expressed confidence in the university's future under the leadership of Professor Obamuyi as Vice-Chancellor.