Obasanjo Urges Reform In NOUN, Canvasses Return Of Law Programme, Welcomes New VC

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for key reforms at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), including the restoration of its Law programmes, increased student enrolment, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its academic system.

The former president made the remarks on Friday while hosting the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Uduma Orji Uduma, and his management team, following their official introduction at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Obasanjo highlighted the need for academic advancement through innovation and technology, urging the university leadership to prioritise modernisation and expand access to education.

Responding, the immediate-past Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi A. Peters, noted that the university has already taken significant steps towards integrating artificial intelligence into its academic content.

He added that these efforts have earned NOUN several recognitions from international educational bodies.

On enrolment, Peters disclosed that the university currently has about 300,000 registered students, with approximately 190,000 actively engaged, explaining that the gap reflects varying levels of participation.

He expressed confidence in the leadership of the new Vice-Chancellor, stating that Professor Uduma is committed to sustaining innovation and advancing institutional development.

In his remarks, Professor Uduma pledged to prioritise the revival of the Law programme and strengthen ongoing reforms.

He also thanked Obasanjo for his continued support and contributions to the growth of the institution.

Later, at the Abeokuta Study Centre of the university, the Vice-Chancellor was received by the Centre Director, Oyekunle Adegboyega, who conducted the visiting team on a tour of the facility’s offices.