Education

Muhammad Isah Zng

A former lecturer at Al-Qalam University, Malam Mubarak Ibrahim Lawan, stated that education is dead in Nigeria in a post he shared last week on his popular Facebook account.

“Our youth are no longer interested in education at all. They preferred to be celebrities rather than teachers or lecturers because it’s a quick way to be rich, not education.”

“The majority of Nigerian university students are after certificates; they are curious to graduate and leave their schools because the government gives more attention to celebrities than teachers and lecturers,” he said. 

“But there’s still hope for government, if it considers these: First, it should give full attention to the welfare of teachers and lecturers by paying them their allowances on time”, he added.

Malam Mubarak called on the government to make a concerted effort to renovate laboratories and libraries to alleviate the learning difficulties faced by students.

Finally, he advised that the government should also continue providing scholarships to lecturers and teachers to enhance their professional development.

Malam Mubarak resigned from his position at the university a few years ago. Since then, he has been involved in real estate businesses in Kano and beyond.

By Anwar Usman

The West African Examinations Council has announced the official release of the results for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination for school candidates.

This was revealed in a statement issued through X on Monday, August 4, 2025, the examination body confirmed that candidates who sat for the exam can now access their results online.

“The West African Examinations Council is pleased to inform candidates who sat WASSCE for School Candidates, 2025 that the result has officially been released today, Monday, August 4, 2025,” WAEC stated.

Candidates are advised to visit the Council’s result portal to check their performance.

“To access the result, log on to http://waecdirect.org,” the statement added.

Details later…

By Kasim Isa Muhammad‎‎

The Vice-Chancellor Federal University, Kashere, Prof. Umaru A. Pate has donated twenty laptop computers to the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, which was recently upgraded to the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.

‎‎The computers were donated last week during a one-day interactive session for mass communication students from the University of Maiduguri, Borno State University and Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri. ‎‎

The interactive session was organised by the Department of Mass Communication in collaboration with the Northeast Zone of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) and Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB),‎ ‎Prof. Pate handed over the Computers to the Department, through the Vice-Chancellor, University of Maiduguri, Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele.

He promised to facilitate more supports to the newly established faculty so that it would globally compete by providing more quality journalism and communication knowledge and skills that are needed in the contemporary world. ‎

‎The event was graciously attended by the management of the University of Maiduguri that included the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, Registrar and Bursar.

Professor Mele appreciated Professor Pate for his generosity, experiences and wisdom sharing as well as commitment to support communication professionals and students.

He said the University would provide all the necessary support for the growth of mass communication. ‎‎

The Head of Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Abdulmutallib A. Abubakar who is also the ACSPN’s Northeast Deputy President, appreciated Prof. Pate for empowering Department and students.

He promised to use the knowledge and computers for inculcating 21st skills and knowledge to students. ‎‎

The students also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to not only interact with one of the most respected professors in Nigeria but also to draw insight, wisdom and inspiration from his dispatch.

By Anas Abbas

In recent weeks, Nigerian students across various universities have expressed growing frustration over the delayed disbursement of their upkeep allowances, a situation that has exacerbated the financial challenges many face amidst a struggling economy.

The Daily reality gathered that the upkeep allowance which is intended to support students with living expenses, has become a critical lifeline for those relying on it to cover basic needs such as food and transportation.

The Situation on Campus

Reports from Bayero university, Kano indicates that students are increasingly vocal about their plight.

On social media platforms,the students are commenting that the nelfund should disburse their stipend on a regular release.

“The NELFUND upkeep issue has become increasingly concerning, raising doubts about the program’s sustainability due to poor scheduling and inconsistency. Many students rely heavily on these allowances for their food and transportation, and the delays have caused significant hardship,” expressed Yusuf Aminu, a final-year student.

Adamu Muhammad expressed to the Daily Reality that NELFUND should disburse stipends to students on a monthly basis, rather than at arbitrary intervals.

Since it is intended as a monthly allowance, payments should not be made at the discretion of the program.

The current method of distributing student upkeep funds falls short of acceptable standards. “How can upkeep be paid two months or more after it’s due? This is an issue that officials must address urgently.Many students rely entirely on NELFUND, using the stipend to cover essential needs,” he said.

Economic Context

The concerns raised by students come against the backdrop of Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges. Inflation rates have soared, leading to increased prices for food and other essentials within the compusMany students report having to skip meals or rely on loans from friends to make ends meet while waiting for their allwances.

Nelfund Response

The Daily Reality reached out to the NELFUND office via email and phone but has yet to receive a response.Looking AheadAs students continue to voice their concerns, there are calls for greater accountability and transparency. Student Union government is urging students to be patient.

In a short interview, the Student Union Government (SUG) of Bayero University Kano (BUK) assured the Daily Reality that students should remain patient as the union is actively working to ensure the timely disbursement of their stipends.

“Last week, several universities received their monthly allowances, and we anticipate that Bayero University will receive their upkeep this week,” the SUG representative stated.

“If the allowances are not released by the end of the week, we will send a delegation from the SUG to the NELFUND office in Abuja to address the issue directly,” he added.

As the situation develops, it is clear that addressing these concerns will be crucial not only for the well-being of Nigerian students but also for the future of education in the country.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Columbia University has announced disciplinary actions against dozens of students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on its campus earlier this year. Measures taken include suspensions, expulsions, and the revocation of degrees, according to a university spokesperson.

The protests, which drew national attention, had sparked controversy over their tone and messaging. The Trump administration, citing concerns of antisemitism, accused the demonstrators of promoting hate speech and paused federal funding to the university in March.

University officials stated that the disciplinary process was based on violations of campus policies, not political content. “We support free expression, but actions that disrupt university operations or threaten community safety are subject to consequences,” the spokesperson said.

Student and civil rights groups have condemned the punishments, calling them excessive and politically motivated. Advocacy organizations continue to demand transparency in the university’s disciplinary procedures.

By Uzair Adam

The Vice-Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano, Professor Muktar Atiku Kurawa, has announced that the institution will host its second combined convocation ceremony from Friday, July 25 to Saturday, July 26, 2025.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Professor Kurawa described the event as a significant milestone in the university’s development.

He noted that the convocation would cover five academic sessions, from 2018/2019 to 2023/2024, and will include both undergraduate and postgraduate graduands.

The Daily Reality reports that this marks the first convocation for the university’s postgraduate students, following the commencement of its postgraduate programmes in 2021.

Highlighting the uniqueness of this year’s convocation, the Vice-Chancellor revealed that Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I, a retired Supreme Court Justice, will be installed as the new Chancellor of the university.

As part of the ceremony, the university will confer honorary doctorate degrees on notable Nigerians who have significantly contributed to its growth and progress.

Among them is Engineer Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and founder of the university and its sister institution, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil.

Other recipients of the honorary doctorate include philanthropist Hajiya Maryam Sunusi Dantata, the late Alhaji Aminu Dantata (to be honoured posthumously), Alhaji Aliyu Sa’idu Bebeji, proprietor of Aliko Oil, and Alhaji Adamu Yahya (popularly known as A.Y Maikifi).

“These individuals have supported the university since inception and have been instrumental in promoting its mission. We obtained Senate approval to honour them accordingly,” Professor Kurawa stated.

A pre-convocation lecture is scheduled for Friday, July 25, at the university’s City Campus, to be delivered by Professor Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission.

The event will be chaired by the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad.Speaking on institutional development, Professor Kurawa disclosed that the university has grown from five to nine faculties, with a tenth — the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies — currently under review by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Plans are also underway to establish a Faculty of Allied Health Sciences offering programs in Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science, Radiography, Physiotherapy, and related fields.

The Vice-Chancellor also confirmed that the university has reverted to its original name, Northwest University, Kano, following a bill signed by the Governor of Kano State on December 25, 2024.

Describing the institution as “first among equals,” Professor Kurawa emphasized that the university is progressing steadily and remains competitive nationally.

He added that the number of students to be convocated is yet to be finalized but assured that a breakdown by session will be released in due course.

By Muhammad Abubakar

SOKOTO — The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) has held its first-ever strategic retreat for the institution’s Governing Council and Management staff, aimed at enhancing governance, innovation, and institutional development.

The retreat, which took place from July 13 to 16, 2025, at the Army Officers’ Mess and Suites in Sokoto, was convened on the sidelines of the 30th Governing Council meeting chaired by the Pro-Chancellor, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.).

A statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations of the University, Jamilu M. Magaji, noted that the retreat served as a platform for reflection, planning, and strategic alignment between Council members and University Management.

Col. Aminu, in his opening remarks, stressed the importance of synergy between leadership organs of the university in achieving long-term success. Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan Umar described the retreat as timely and vital for institutional sustainability and improved service delivery.

The retreat featured four insightful paper presentations. Among them was a security-focused presentation by Mr. Lawal Yusuf Yashi of the Department of State Services (DSS), who called for proactive intelligence and collaboration to address evolving threats in tertiary institutions.

Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, spoke on the role of governing councils in university governance, while Prof. Maryam Abubakar Koko presented strategies for sustainable revenue generation through innovation and partnerships.

The final paper, delivered by Mal. Ahmad Shehu, Registrar of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, explored strengthening university-community ties through “Town and Gown” partnerships.

Participants concluded the retreat with a renewed commitment to improving institutional performance, fostering innovation, and building collaborative relationships to enhance FUBK’s academic and societal impact.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Alumni of the University of Maiduguri have voiced strong opposition to reported plans to rename the institution after former President Muhammadu Buhari. In a statement issued by Muazu M. Dikwa, a 2004 LLB graduate, the alumni group described the move as “ill-advised” and one that fails to reflect the university’s unique heritage and regional significance.

The group emphasised that the University of Maiduguri has long stood as a symbol of resilience and academic excellence in Nigeria’s North-East. They argued that changing its name would undermine its historical identity, which is deeply tied to its geographic location and the challenges the region has faced.

The statement also pointed out that former President Buhari has already been honoured with the naming of the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, Katsina State—his hometown. The alumni maintained that this existing tribute is more appropriate and sufficient in recognising Buhari’s contributions.

“We urge the relevant authorities to reconsider any such proposals,” the statement read. “Focus should instead be on strengthening the university’s capacity and supporting its mission in the region.”

The alumni group called on all stakeholders—students, faculty, community members, and especially the people of Borno State—to resist any attempt to alter the name of the institution.

The University of Maiduguri, established in 1975, has played a crucial role in advancing education in Nigeria’s North-East, despite the security challenges it faces.

By Zailani Bappa

In the last few days, we have been engaged in a debate over whether it was right or not for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rename the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) after the late President Muhammadu Buhari. I want to add my voice to this as well.

I am a staunch fan and supporter of the late President, and I cherish his exemplary qualities, which are truly uncommon among our present-day crop of active politicians. I respect him alive and in his death. I am also a graduate of UNIMAID.

Despite the above, I strongly disagree with Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to rename my alma mater after President Muhammadu Buhari at this time. The move, to my understanding, is self-serving, dishonest and, obviously, unpopular. And if the President has to do it, there are so many other things available to manipulate for achieving political ambition. 

Just imagine renaming the University of London, or the Oxford University or the Harvard University to another name at this hour. These names have become top brand symbols worldwide and are synonymous with the excellence the Universities are demonstrating.

So is UNIMAID. Its service of excellence has become synonymous with this name for more than five decades. Universities with names of persons, such as Ahmadu Bello University and Bayero University, built their present reputation from the outset, along with those names.

In truth, if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wanted so desperately to seize the demise of President Muhammadu Buhari to advance his political opportunities in the Northern part of Nigeria ahead of the upcoming elections, he should have renamed the University of Ibadan or the University of Lagos after the late President which will prove to the Northerners more of his nationalistic and unbiased posture. 

After all, the latter of the above Universities was reportedly saved from this kind of unwholesome political decision by his active participation when it was to be renamed after the late MKO Abiola. I will sign and urge everyone to sign the petition currently circulating, which opposes this highly offensive decision.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has unveiled plans to launch a national job portal by 2026, designed to connect student loan beneficiaries with employment opportunities both within and outside Nigeria.

Speaking at a press briefing, NELFUND Managing Director Akintunde Sawyerr stated that the platform will serve as a bridge between graduates and employers, featuring job listings from both the public and private sectors, as well as international recruiters. “Though we cannot guarantee employment, we aim to ease the job search process for our beneficiaries,” Sawyerr said.

He clarified that student loan repayment will commence only after a beneficiary secures a job and completes their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Repayments will be deducted at a flat rate of 10% from monthly salaries. In the event of unemployment, deductions will be suspended, and in the event of death, the loan will be written off entirely.

In response to recent complaints from students who paid tuition before receiving their loans, NELFUND has directed institutions to refund the affected students or return the funds to the agency. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) are currently investigating defaulting institutions.

NELFUND, which manages over 3.2 million student records, expects an additional one million loan applications by the end of 2025. The agency also announced the rollout of a new vocational loan programme, with a pilot phase launching in Enugu. The initiative will finance training, transport, stipends, and tools — all interest-free.