The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Alumni Association has called for the immediate withdrawal of the advertisement for the position of Vice-Chancellor of the university, citing breaches of the University Act and discriminatory requirements.
The association, which represents medical graduates of the university, expressed concerns over the advertisement’s focus on minimum skills and personal achievements rather than the qualities specified by the University Act, reports Nigerian Tribune.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Abuja, the President of the UNIZIK Medics Alumni Association, Prof. Afiadigwe Evaristus, noted that the advertisement excludes medical professionals from contesting for the position, requiring instead a PhD, despite the fact that “medical fellowship surpasses PhD in academic standing.”
Prof. Evaristus stated, “We urge the university authorities to withdraw the advertisement and release a revised version that reflects the qualities and requirements for the Vice-Chancellor position, devoid of discrimination.”
He also called on well-meaning Nigerians and stakeholders to join them in advocating for a transparent and equitable selection process.
He emphasised, “Our call for action is not driven by personal interests but by a deep-seated desire to protect the integrity and excellence of our alma mater.”
The association also criticised the requirement for candidates to have attracted grants totalling 400 million naira, describing it as “unrealistic and unprecedented.”
Prof. Evaristus reiterated, “We urge the university authorities to withdraw the advertisement and release a revised version that reflects the qualities and requirements for the Vice-Chancellor position, devoid of discrimination.”
He further explained that the association had written a letter to the governing council, but the council has yet to take any significant steps to address the issue.
The association concluded by calling on well-meaning Nigerians and stakeholders to support their push for “a transparent and equitable selection process.”
