Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria Converge in Lagos to Address Tertiary Education Challenges
Pro-Chancellors of state-owned universities in Nigeria convened in Lagos for the 7th Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria (COPSUN).
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Pro-Chancellors from state-owned universities across Nigeria have gathered in Lagos for the 7th Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria (COPSUN). The conference, themed "Effective University Governance: Role of Stakeholders," commenced on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the Marriot Hotel in Ikeja.
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The opening ceremony featured notable figures in the Nigerian education sector, including the event's Chief Host, Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule. In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that despite the challenges facing the education sector, universities have the potential to become world-class institutions by adhering to their founding visions and effectively managing resources and policies.
He highlighted the achievements in Lagos State, noting the systematic management of the three state-owned universities, which has led to industrial harmony, a smooth academic calendar, and successful collaborations with private and corporate entities. These efforts have enhanced infrastructure and attracted foreign students and donors.
Keynote Speaker Prof. Nuhu Omeiza Yaqub called for efficient collaboration among stakeholders to tackle the challenges in tertiary education, stressing that a robust university system is crucial for national advancement. He urged the Visitors of State Universities to play a more active role in governance to expedite solutions to pressing issues.
Presiding over the ceremony, Former Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, acknowledged the unsatisfactory state of Nigeria’s tertiary education. He encouraged COPSUN members to actively engage with funding agencies to secure additional financial support and to use innovative approaches to attract funds to their universities. He also advised university councils to develop strategic plans to enhance their competitiveness with federal universities.
In his goodwill message, JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede attributed many of the sector's challenges to illicit admissions, enrollment of underage students, and substandard pre-degree programs. He urged attendees to address these issues promptly.
Senator Joshua Lidani, Chairman of COPSUN, delivered the welcome address, while former Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof. Julius Okojie, and Chairman of the Lagos State House Committee on Education, Hon. Ajani Owolabi, conveyed goodwill messages.
The planning committee is chaired by Prof. Ayodeji Omole, Pro-Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, with the Local Organising Committee led by Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University.
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The conference will continue on Wednesday, July 10, and conclude on Thursday, July 11, 2024.
