According to a report by the Punch on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the Academic Staff Union of Universities has strongly opposed recent education agreements between the Federal Government and the United Kingdom, particularly the proposed establishment of a campus of Coventry University in Nigeria.
Speaking at a public lecture organised by the ASUU branch of Sa’adu Zungur University, ASUU President Christopher Piwuna criticised the move, describing it as a threat to the growth and independence of Nigeria’s university system.
He argued that the development reflects a contradiction in policy and fairness, stating, “They have denied Nigerians visas to study in the UK, yet they are coming here to establish universities and take our money.”
Piwuna warned that allowing foreign institutions to operate within Nigeria could weaken local universities, especially at a time when they require stronger investment and support. He also alleged that some foreign universities are expanding into countries like Nigeria due to financial pressures and declining international student numbers in their home countries.
The ASUU leader stressed the importance of prioritising the development of Nigerian universities, insisting that the country should focus on improving its own institutions rather than opening doors to external dominance in the education sector.
Beyond the issue of foreign university expansion, he raised concerns about governance within Nigerian universities, cautioning against the excessive concentration of authority in the offices of vice-chancellors and advocating for the preservation of established academic structures.
On staff welfare, Piwuna issued a four-day deadline to the Federal Government to implement the agreed salary structure for lecturers, warning that failure to act promptly could trigger a response from the union.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University, Fatima Tahir, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to staff welfare and institutional development, urging lecturers to remain dedicated to their responsibilities while efforts continue to strengthen the system. Read_More…