Storm In Education Sector As FG Disqualifies Acting VCs, Rectors, Provosts From Top Job Races

The Federal Government has announced a new directive barring acting heads of tertiary institutions from vying for the same substantive positions they temporarily occupy.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to reports, the policy affects acting Vice Chancellors (VCs) of universities, Rectors of polytechnics, and Provosts of colleges of education. The Ministry of Education stated that those holding acting positions will no longer be eligible to contest for permanent appointments unless they resign from their acting roles at least six months before the selection process.

In a statement released on Monday and signed by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, explained that the decision was made to curb the misuse of acting roles, which often gives candidates an unfair advantage and undermines transparency.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the government’s resolve to promote integrity and fairness in the appointment process of heads of federal tertiary institutions.

The statement reads:
“In keeping with the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to fostering equity, transparency, and good governance in the leadership selection process across federal tertiary institutions, the Honourable Minister, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has approved a new eligibility policy for the appointment of Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Provosts.

“This policy addresses longstanding concerns about officers in acting capacities exploiting their temporary roles to influence appointment outcomes, thereby compromising the integrity of the process.

“To ensure a level playing field and uphold the credibility of selection procedures, the policy now stipulates that no acting Vice Chancellor, Rector, or Provost shall be eligible to contest for the substantive position while still serving in an acting role. However, they may step down from their acting capacity—before completing the non-renewable six-month term—in order to become eligible for the role.

This measure aligns with the existing 2013 guidelines for appointing principal officers in federal tertiary institutions, alongside other extant regulatory frameworks.

“The Ministry urges Governing Councils, institutional management, and all stakeholders to comply fully with this directive. We appreciate the continued support of all parties in ensuring transparency and credibility in leadership appointments, and we believe this reform will strengthen public trust in the education system.”