Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, has received the endorsement of 25 civil society organisations (CSOs) in her bid to become the institution’s substantive vice chancellor.
Prof. Maikudi is among 40 candidates vying for the role, which became vacant following the end of Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah’s tenure.
The CSOs, operating under the umbrella of the Civil Society Coalition for Educational Development, showed their support for Prof. Maikudi during a rally at the university’s permanent site in Abuja.
Dr. Wisdom Ohalete Chinedu, speaking on behalf of the group, described Maikudi as the best candidate for the position, citing her proven leadership abilities during her tenure as Deputy Vice Chancellor and Acting Vice Chancellor.
The coalition emphasized that Prof. Maikudi’s leadership had propelled the university to new heights, and that her stewardship would continue to safeguard the institution’s growth and stability.
The group also expressed concern over protests from a section of professors against her candidacy, particularly claims questioning her qualifications for the position.
They dismissed these allegations as unfounded, highlighting that Maikudi had previously served as Deputy Vice Chancellor—a role with qualifications similar to that of the Vice Chancellor—without any objections.
In a statement released to the media, the Civil Society Coalition for Educational Development stated, “After careful investigations and review of the ongoing leadership crisis at the University of Abuja, we firmly believe that Prof. Aisha Maikudi is the most qualified candidate for the position of Vice Chancellor. The opposition to her candidacy is driven by vested political interests and outdated perceptions that are resistant to progress.”
The group expressed disappointment over the recent protests by some professors at the university, calling them a direct attack on due process and a setback for the inclusion of women and youth in leadership.
They also criticized the protests as being politically motivated and aimed at undermining Maikudi’s candidacy.
The CSOs urged the Minister of Education to intervene in the situation and ensure that Prof. Maikudi is appointed as the substantive Vice Chancellor.
They described her as a victim of ethnic and political machinations, and called for her protection from those attempting to derail her appointment.
The group further called for the establishment of a truth and reconciliation panel to address the post-appointment tensions within the university.
The coalition reiterated their support for Prof. Aisha Maikudi, urging the Nigerian government to make a swift decision and appoint her to the role, emphasizing the importance of empowering women in leadership positions for national development.
