The University of Abuja remains without a substantive vice-chancellor after months of internal disputes derailed the succession process, prompting a fresh intervention from the Federal Ministry of Education.
What began as a routine leadership transition has descended into a protracted standoff between rival factions within the university’s Governing Council, management, and academic community. Sources say the deadlock centres on disputes over candidate shortlisting, alleged procedural breaches, and accusations of favouritism. While some stakeholders are lobbying for allies to assume the role, others are insisting on a strictly merit-based process in line with the Federal Universities Act.
The tension has drawn open concern from staff unions and senior academics, who warn that the absence of a substantive leader is undermining policy continuity, slowing administrative work, and stalling academic development. Calls have grown for the Federal Government and the National Universities Commission (NUC) to step in decisively to restore order and ensure a transparent selection.
In the latest twist, the Ministry of Education announced on Saturday that Prof. Mathew Adamu has been appointed as acting vice-chancellor for a three-month period, effective 11 August 2025. The ministry confirmed that President Bola Tinubu approved the appointment, directing Adamu to work with the Governing Council to conclude the process for selecting a substantive VC “in line with statutory provisions and extant guidelines.”
Adamu, a professor of veterinary parasitology and entomology from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, is a fellow of the College of Veterinary Surgeons of Nigeria and a member of the Knights of St Mulumba. He replaces Prof. Patricia Manko Lar, who had served in an acting capacity since February.
The appointment makes Adamu the second acting VC named by President Tinubu this year, following the removal of Prof. Aisha Maikudi in February.
Meanwhile, competition for the university’s top job remains fierce. At least 30 professors from within and outside the institution have applied, including academics from across Nigeria and abroad. While education analysts see this as a chance to bring in a leader with both vision and capability, the sheer number of candidates — and the lobbying accompanying their bids — risks further delaying a decision.
The university’s Governing Council has already advertised the post, but with entrenched divisions showing little sign of easing, the process faces continued uncertainty.
