In a bid to restore excellence, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), narrows down its search for a new Vice-Chancellor, with three distinguished professors making the cut, emphasizing the pivotal role of merit in the selection process.
After the departure of the former Vice-Chancellor, NSUK has been in a transitional phase, with Professor Abdullahi Sallau Modibbo holding the fort in an acting capacity, awaiting the appointment of a substantive leader to steer the institution forward.
Under the stewardship of Professor Muhammadu Attahiru Jega, the Governing Council undertakes the arduous task of selecting the next Vice-Chancellor, culminating in the identification of three frontrunners: Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Professor Ibrahim Muhammad Haruna, and Professor Suleiman Akwu-Odo Salihu Aruwa.
With a pool of seventeen applicants vying for the prestigious position, competition runs high, featuring notable figures such as former Commissioners and seasoned academicians like Professors Alanana Otaki, Umaru Gurku, and Ayuba Jonathan.
Amidst the fervent anticipation, stakeholders voice their plea for transparency and adherence to meritocratic principles in the selection process. They underscore the pivotal role of governance in safeguarding the integrity and academic prowess of NSUK.
However, concerns arise as allegations surface regarding the alignment of the Governor’s preferred candidate with the stipulated job criteria, raising questions about the sanctity of the selection process.
The University’s stringent criteria for aspiring leaders underscore the imperative of possessing a distinguished professorship spanning over five years, coupled with demonstrable academic leadership, management prowess, and a stellar scholarly track record both nationally and internationally.