The National Universities Commission (NUC) has welcomed its new Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, who has officially taken over from the outgoing Acting Executive Secretary, Dr. Chris Maiyaki. The transition occurred during a ceremony held on Monday in Abuja, which featured notable attendees, including former Executive Secretary Prof. Julius Okojie and various staff members and special guests.
In his inaugural remarks, Prof. Ribadu highlighted the crucial role of the NUC as the regulatory body responsible for overseeing Nigeria’s higher education institutions. He stressed the importance of looking inward to assess the relevance of existing laws governing the commission’s operations.
To enhance the effectiveness of the NUC, Prof. Ribadu announced plans to revisit and evaluate the laws that dictate the commission’s functions and its interactions with stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify potential areas for improvement that will strengthen the commission and optimize its service delivery.
The new Executive Secretary expressed his commitment to prioritizing the training and welfare of the NUC staff. He believes that investing in their professional development is essential for maximizing productivity and ensuring that the commission meets its objectives effectively.
Prof. Ribadu is well-respected in the academic community, holding a Ph.D. in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Ibadan. His extensive experience includes serving as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA), where he made significant contributions to education and research.
Throughout his career, Prof. Ribadu has received numerous awards recognizing his dedication and impact in the field of education. His research interests focus on veterinary medicine, animal health, and public health, underscoring his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in these areas.
In a broader context, Nigeria is currently facing health challenges, as evidenced by recent reports from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The country recorded 190 deaths and 1,154 cases of Lassa fever in 2024, highlighting ongoing public health concerns.
In a separate incident, a mother has been accused of throwing her baby, labeled as a “bastard,” into a river, drawing attention to social issues that need to be addressed within the community. Such incidents reflect the complex societal challenges that Nigeria faces today.
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Maiyaki, in his speech, pointed out that outdated laws pose significant challenges to the smooth operation of the NUC. He emphasized the need for reforms to ensure that the commission can effectively fulfill its mandate in the evolving educational landscape.
Read also: Tinubu announces new appointments
As Prof. Ribadu embarks on his new role, his vision for the NUC includes fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation in Nigeria’s higher education sector, ensuring that the commission remains relevant and effective in its regulatory functions.
