By Milcah Tanimu

The Association of Registrars of Nigerian Universities (ARNU) has issued a call to action, urging the Federal Government and other stakeholders to promptly reconstitute the Governing Councils of universities across the nation, which were dissolved earlier.

In an 11-point communique released at the conclusion of the Second Registrars’ Workshop and the 75th Business Meeting, held from April 24 to 26, 2024, at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) headquarters in Abuja, ARNU emphasized the necessity of reestablishing the Councils to ensure the optimal functioning of universities.

ARNU Chairman, Mr. Ife Oluwole, and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Yakubu Ayuba, jointly signed the communique, underscoring the association’s concerns regarding the disruption caused by the dissolution of the Governing Councils, particularly in Federal Universities.

The theme of the workshop, “Sustainable Legal Framework as Panacea for Industrial Harmony in the Nigerian University System: Challenges and Remedies,” provided a platform for deliberation on critical issues affecting university governance and operations.

Among its resolutions, ARNU advocated for regular retreats to be organized for Principal Officers, Council members, and staff upon their appointments, emphasizing the importance of capacity-building and adherence to the legal framework governing universities to foster harmony within the system.

Additionally, the association highlighted the need for Registrars and university staff to prioritize their health and well-being amidst the demands of their roles, urging continuous capacity-building and enhancement of negotiation skills.

ARNU also underscored the importance of an equitable reward system that addresses the holistic needs of Registrars and other university stakeholders, including health, welfare, retirement, and end-of-tenure packages.

Expressing appreciation for the Federal Government’s efforts in addressing security challenges, ARNU called for heightened security measures to safeguard lives and properties on university campuses nationwide.

The successful workshop, hosted by NOUN in collaboration with ARNU, brought together 93 university registrars from across the country, facilitating robust discussions and strategic planning to enhance the governance and operations of Nigerian universities.