Thirty-two years post-establishment, the federally-owned Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, remains without its initial federal funding allocation.
No adequate explanation for this omission has been provided by successive administrations. This continues despite persistent advocacy and formal requests for disbursement from multiple Governing Councils and administrative leadership.
The issue was brought to light by the 6th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, during a recent press conference. He noted that Nigeria’s Federal Universities are still grappling with the repercussions of the eight-month-long national industrial action by staff unions in 2022. Although the federal government has made efforts to resolve the issue of unpaid salaries, challenges related to staff morale and engagement remain.
Professor Iwe highlighted that, despite the numerous challenges faced by MOUAU, the institution has made significant progress in academic excellence, human capital development, infrastructure enhancement, community engagement, and administrative efficiency over the past three decades.
He stated, “Our graduates play a vital role in the socio-economic and political advancement of both the nation and the global community, as the University continues to excel in various critical areas and strives to establish itself as an entrepreneurial institution.”
He refuted claims from some misinformed sources suggesting that students are being exploited through excessive fees and levies, clarifying that what exists are charges, not fees, in federal institutions. He explained that the recent increases in service charges are a direct result of the federal government's removal of the fuel subsidy.
“There is no exploitation of students. An open standing Committee is in place to address any such allegations effectively.”
He responded to inquiries concerning the substantial damage to university infrastructure and facilities resulting from the violent student demonstration on February 6, 2024. Following the unrest, the government imposed a mandatory N25,000 reparation fee per student for reinstatement after the university-wide suspension.
He further clarified that while repairs are underway, students who do not remit the fee will face disciplinary action.