Professor at UNILAG Highlights 'Japa' Brain Drain Crisis in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions
UNILAG Professor Laments Brain Drain Crisis In Nigerian Higher Institutions
Faith Orji 
Addressing attendees at the annual conference of the Lagos district of The Companion, Professor Khalid Adekoya, a distinguished scholar in Genetics at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), expressed deep concern about the increasing brain drain phenomenon, referred to as 'Japa,' in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
At the event, held on Sunday, October 22, at the Shamsudeen Adisa Mosque Multipurpose Hall in Ikeja, Professor Adekoya disclosed that approximately 50 percent of university lecturers have already departed for more favorable opportunities, while a staggering 80 percent of those who remain are contemplating similar departures.
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During his guest lecture, Professor Adekoya urged the government to promptly reverse the 'Japa' syndrome to 'Japada,' emphasizing that this transformation is feasible through substantial investments in education and research across the nation.
He stressed that the government plays a pivotal role in resolving the challenges faced by tertiary education in Nigeria, stating, "Government, as the guardian of all, must create a conducive environment for all stakeholders to operate effectively."
Highlighting the critical need for functional universities, he added, "To harness the full potential of education for national development, we must ensure that our universities are functional."
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Professor Adekoya lamented the dire shortage of academic staff, citing examples of lecturers leaving universities due to various issues, including insufficient salaries and challenging working conditions. He emphasized the importance of quality infrastructure and motivated lecturers to retain promising academics within the country.
Furthermore, he called attention to the lack of budgetary support for education, inadequate infrastructure, and the resulting inability to retain first-class graduates who are reluctant to take up positions in universities due to concerns about their welfare.
In closing, Professor Adekoya underlined the importance of a conducive academic environment, proposing that when educators are content with their roles, universities will thrive and students will benefit from a higher quality of education.
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The Amir of the Lagos district of The Companion, Abdulkabir Baruwa, stressed the significance of the conference in addressing challenges facing Nigeria's tertiary education system. He urged more funding for education in the national budget and called on universities to attract financial support from the private sector to enhance research and innovation.
National Amir of The Companion, Engr. Kamil Olalekan, and the event's chairman, Alhaji Thabit Shonaike, also emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by tertiary education in Nigeria, aiming for improved quality, standards, and overall development in the sector.
