The Voice of African Universities (VAU) has called on the Nigerian Government to appoint Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja), saying it will advance education.
The call was made in a statement signed by Prof. Mamadou Camara, the Deputy Vice President of the Association (West Africa), in a statement he issued on Wednesday in Marseille, France.
Prof. Camara emphasised the necessity of the endorsement, noting that Professor Maikudi possesses the qualifications and vision required to lead the University into a progressive future.
He noted that the 41-year-old Professor of International Law, would bring an outstanding blend of academic excellence, leadership experience, and international connections to bear on the vital role.
According to him, her impressive academic credentials and global network have been instrumental in advancing the interests of the University of Abuja.
Prof. Camara, therefore, condemned the ongoing smear campaign against her candidacy, which has been orchestrated by some individuals questioning her age and gender.
He described the attacks against Prof. Maikudi as anti-modern and counterproductive to the advancement of education in Nigeria
“Detractors claim she is too young and suggest that a woman cannot hold such a prestigious office. This argument is not only intellectually dishonest but also steeped in hypocrisy,” Prof. Camara added.
While the Voice of African Universities condemned the unfounded attacks on her candidacy, the association called for a fair and transparent selection process that upholds the values of excellence and meritocracy.
The association restated its stance to support the candidacy of Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi for the substantive position of Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja.
Prof. Camara added that even though the power to appoint a VC rests with the Governing Council of the university, the Nigeria’s Ministry of Education and other stakeholders should ensure that fairness and due process were followed in the selection process.
