Afe Babalola Urges Nigerian Government To Close Underperforming Universities

Afe Babalola Urges Nigerian Government To Close Underperforming Universities

Eminent lawyer and elder statesman, Afe Babalola, SAN, emphasized the urgent need for the Federal Government to take decisive action in closing down all substandard institutions and study centers across Nigeria, warning that failure to do so would further deteriorate the nation’s educational system…….. CONTINUE READING 

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday during the conferment of the Fellow of King’s College, London in recognition of his significant contributions to education and society, Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to intensify efforts in scrutinizing universities and centers that do not adhere to approved standards.

He condemned these institutions as detrimental to quality and functional education in Nigeria and beyond.

“The proliferation of mushroom satellite institutions and campuses, including study centers that operate outside approved standards, is the greatest threat facing education today, particularly in Nigeria and Africa,” Babalola asserted.

He criticized the NUC for not taking stronger actions against illegal universities that continue to operate despite being flagged and for allowing the establishment of new ones regularly.

Babalola also questioned the lack of arrests and legal actions against owners and staff of such illegal institutions.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State commended Babalola’s achievements across various fields and described him as the father of the state due to his profound impact and contributions.

Meanwhile, Prof. Funmi Olonisakin, Vice President of International Engagement and Service at King’s College, London, highlighted Babalola’s transformative contributions to society as the basis for awarding him the fellowship.