FUTA Governing Council Restates Commitment to Good Governance at Strategic Retreat

The Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has reaffirmed its dedication to good governance, transparency, and institutional excellence.

This assurance was given by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Nora Daduut, during a three-day retreat held for internal and external members of Council at Ikogosi, Ekiti State, from Tuesday, August 19 to Thursday, August 21, 2025.

Declaring the retreat open, Senator Daduut, a Professor of French Language, described the gathering as “a unique opportunity to assess the journey so far, re-energize commitment, and sharpen focus on the task ahead: steering this great institution towards even greater heights in governance, innovation, and academic excellence.” She noted that the retreat was not merely a forum for reflection but a platform for strategic planning, knowledge sharing, and capacity building.

Reiterating the Council’s stance on transparency and accountability, Senator Daduut emphasized alignment with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. She urged members to embody this vision in their stewardship of higher education, stressing that the Council remained committed to consolidating FUTA’s leading position as Nigeria’s premier University of Technology.

Delivering a keynote address titled “Expectations of Council Management Leadership in Promoting Good Governance in Nigerian Universities”, Professor Olushola Aderounmu, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State, acknowledged the history of power struggles and political interference that has often strained the relationship between Councils and University Management. He clarified that while Councils oversee policies, finance, property, and public relations, Management—led by the Vice-Chancellor—handles daily operations and resource alignment with strategic goals. He recommended structured communication, regular feedback systems, and clearer role delineation between Councils and Management to foster synergy and avoid conflict.

In her presentation, Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, delivered an address titled “State of the University: Progress, Challenges and Opportunities.” She highlighted significant strides in academic programme expansion, research, teaching, community service, and infrastructure development, while acknowledging persistent challenges such as funding shortfalls, energy shortages, inadequate hostel accommodations, weak industry partnerships, and multiple oversight agencies. Despite these hurdles, she reaffirmed FUTA’s resolve to leverage its strengths, mitigate its weaknesses, and sustain its global relevance as Nigeria’s leading University of Technology.

One of the resource persons, Professor Emeritus Olufemi Bamiro, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, urged universities to embrace cutting-edge research as the foundation of innovation and national prosperity. He argued that in the 21st century, wealth creation is knowledge-driven, requiring global research partnerships, business collaboration, and internationally skilled graduates to compete in a globalized world.

The Secretary to Council and Registrar, Mr. Charles Adeleye, in his closing remarks, expressed appreciation to Senator Daduut, Council members, and resource persons for their commitment and invaluable contributions. He noted that the insights gained from the retreat would further strengthen FUTA’s governance and institutional resilience.

Other distinguished resource persons included Professor Idowu Olayinka, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan; Dr. Ayorinde Ogunruku, former Registrar, Obafemi Awolowo University; Mr. Olushola Ilesanmi, former Bursar, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta; Mrs. Omotayo Ikotun, former Registrar, University of Ibadan (represented by Mr. Akindele Olukayode, former Registrar, Redeemer’s University); Engr. Eugenia Ojeah, Head of Procurement, Bureau of Public Procurement; and Prince Ade Adekanmbi, a public policy and governance expert, who coordinated facilitation at the retreat.