The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Kabiru Bala, has appealed to the National Assembly to make legislative amendments exempting educational institutions from being classified as revenue-generating agencies.
He made this appeal during the 44th convocation ceremony held at Mamman Kontagora Square, ABU, Samaru, Zaria.
Professor Bala stated that such an exemption would enable universities to focus on their role as major catalysts for national development.
He further noted that Ahmadu Bello University, like many other Nigerian universities, faces financial challenges in sustaining and modernizing its activities and operations.
Professor Bala discussed the order of the National Industrial Court, which led to the garnishment of the university’s account with the Central Bank of Nigeria in the sum of ₦2.585 billion.
He expressed dismay that the affected account contained third-party funds, including local and foreign research grants, as well as funds belonging to units of the university affiliated with and supported by external organizations.
The VC explained that as a result of the court order, all operational activities requiring expenditure such as sanitation, electricity, and other utilities were severely impacted.
Earlier in his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Alhaji Mahmood Yayale Ahmed, said that the Nigerian university system is facing challenges related to funding, governance, and management.
He, therefore, advocated for financial independence and minimal interference to ensure that universities remain hubs for intellectual discourse and innovation.
Also, the Chancellor of the university, the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, urged the graduates to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the 21st century as an age of digital and social revolution.
Radio Nigeria reports that the 44th convocation ceremony celebrated 21,952 graduates from the 2023/2024 academic session, with 5,756 earning postgraduate degrees and 16,196 earning bachelor’s degrees.
COV/HALIRU HAMZA
