Former INEC Chairman, Attahiru Jega, was appointed as Pro-Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto by President Bola Tinubu amidst the government's broader initiative to reconstitute governing councils across Nigeria's tertiary institutions.
President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Jega, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS). This aligns with the Federal Government's initiative to appoint 555 individuals to lead governing councils across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Jega, known for his pivotal role in overseeing Nigeria's electoral processes and strengthening democratic governance during his tenure at INEC, brings a wealth of experience to his new role at UDUS. His appointment gains significance amidst the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)'s calls for improved governance, threatening a strike if the government did not reconstitute the governing councils.
The reconstitution of these councils, including Jega’s appointment, is seen as a strategic response to ASUU’s demands, aiming to prevent disruptions in the academic calendar. Joining Jega are esteemed board members, including Miss Mary Nyieor Yisa, R.O. Kazeem, Professor Usman Musa, and Dr. Anthony Usoro.
This appointment underscores the Federal Government's commitment to enhancing the management and oversight of tertiary institutions, ensuring leadership by individuals with integrity and competence. Stakeholders anticipate Jega’s leadership will enhance governance and academic excellence at UDUS.
As Pro-Chancellor, Jega is expected to spearhead initiatives to revitalize the university’s infrastructure, academic programs, and research capabilities. In response to the appointment, Nigerians on social media expressed concerns about Tinubu's past, stating, 'Once Tinubu notices you speak against him with facts, he either buys you over to his side or lobbies you over. He has so many skeletons in his cupboard. Agba drug kingpin.'
