Education

Oluwo Urges Youths to Pair Degrees with Skills, Commends Westland University’s Excellence

Published

3 months ago

July 24, 2026

Trends Admin

Oluwo of Iwoland and Chancellor of Westland University, Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi

Oluwo Urges Youths to Pair Degrees with Skills, Commends Westland University’s Excellence

Monarch describes institution as one of Nigeria’s leading private universities, calls for skills-based education to tackle unemployment as he tasks wealthy Nigerians to invest in youth development

The Oluwo of Iwoland and Chancellor of Westland University, Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has described Westland University as one of Nigeria’s leading private universities, attributing its growing academic excellence to the dedication, passion, and teamwork of its management and workforce, while urging Nigerian youths to complement their academic degrees with vocational and entrepreneurial skills for career success and self-reliance .

The monarch made the remarks on Wednesday during an official visit to the institution in Iwo, Osun State, where he commended the university’s Governing Council, management, lecturers, and other members of staff for maintaining high academic standards and producing graduates with impressive academic performances . He expressed satisfaction with the quality of graduates produced by the institution, noting that the impressive number of students graduating with distinctions reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its determination to produce well-rounded graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society .

Although the university may not yet enjoy widespread national recognition, Oba Akanbi said its achievements have positioned it among Nigeria’s best institutions of higher learning, with the capacity to compete favourably on the global stage and attract students from across the country and beyond . “I am proud of this university because our students are graduating with distinctions. The lecturers, departments, Chairman of the Governing Council and everyone involved are doing an excellent job. Westland University is one of the best universities in Nigeria, and I believe it has what it takes to stand among the best in the world,” the Oluwo said, emphasizing that the institution’s trajectory points toward even greater achievements in the coming years .

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The monarch attributed the institution’s success to the spirit of unity and commitment among members of staff, describing the university community as one family working towards a common goal of producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped with the practical skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment . He urged Nigerians to approach their various professions with dedication, patience, and integrity, stressing that genuine commitment to service remains the foundation of success in both the public and private sectors, and linking the same spirit of excellence to Westland University’s steady progress and rising profile .

Speaking on youth empowerment and unemployment, Oba Akanbi emphasised that academic qualifications alone are no longer sufficient in today’s competitive world, urging students and graduates to complement their certificates with vocational and entrepreneurial skills that would enable them to become employers of labour rather than job seekers . According to him, practical knowledge has become indispensable for career success and self-reliance, as employers increasingly value both academic credentials and practical competence in an era of rapid technological change and economic uncertainty .

“Degrees are important, but skills acquisition is equally important. Even after obtaining a degree or a master’s qualification, practical experience remains essential. Life is not only about theory; practical skills are indispensable,” he added, urging educational institutions to integrate vocational training into their curricula to prepare students for the realities of the job market . The Oluwo also tasked wealthy Nigerians to channel more resources into education and vocational development of young people rather than spending lavishly on luxury and extravagant social events that have little or no lasting impact on national development . “People should invest in education instead of spending hundreds of millions on luxury and parties that have little or no lasting impact. If we truly desire national development, we must invest in our young people because they are the future of this country,” he said, calling on the affluent to see youth education as a patriotic duty and a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future .

Also speaking during the visit, the Vice President of Westland University, Chief Dr Mrs Esther Adepoju, encouraged Nigerian youths to embrace education as a pathway to personal development and national advancement, stating that education instils discipline, builds character, and promotes integrity while discouraging involvement in criminal activities and other social vices that have become prevalent among young people . “Education may not automatically make one wealthy, but it liberates. An educated person understands the value of integrity and is less likely to engage in criminal acts that could destroy their future. Our youths should reject social vices and embrace education for a better tomorrow,” she said, emphasizing the transformative power of education in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders .

Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, Professor Oyekunle Oyelami of the University of Lagos, also underscored the importance of combining academic learning with practical skills, explaining that members of the Governing Council, drawn from different universities across the country, were committed to supporting the institution’s growth through voluntary service, mentorship, and academic guidance . Professor Oyelami noted that universities have three fundamental responsibilities—teaching, research, and community service—adding that academics must continually contribute to societal development by producing knowledge that addresses real-world challenges and preparing students to become agents of positive change in their communities .

“Our responsibility is to ensure that Westland University becomes one of the highest-ranking universities in the world. The facilities here are world-class and compare favourably with those of many universities within and outside Nigeria. We invite young people across Nigeria and beyond to choose Westland University as a place where they can receive quality education, acquire practical skills and develop the capacity to make meaningful contributions to humanity,” he said, inviting prospective students to take advantage of the institution’s world-class facilities and commitment to holistic education . The Oluwo’s latest call aligns with his long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and vocational development, as he had in April 2024 empowered youths in Iwoland with a multi-million naira cash gift aimed at promoting vocational skills and business development among young people who had completed apprenticeships in their respective crafts, expressing hope in the ability of the beneficiaries to multiply the grant in their various investments .

Oluwo Urges Youths to Pair Degrees with Skills, Commends Westland University’s Excellence

Related Topics:degrees Oluwo Skills Westland University

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Education

NELFUND Warns Schools: Student Loans Are Voluntary, Not Compulsory

Published

2 days ago

October 21, 2026

Trends Admin

NELFUND Warns Schools: Student Loans Are Voluntary, Not Compulsory

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has warned tertiary institutions against compelling students to apply for the Federal Government’s student loan scheme, insisting that accessing the facility is voluntary and not a condition for studying in Nigerian institutions.

The clarification followed controversy over a directive reportedly issued by the Enugu State College of Education (Technical), Enugu, requiring all fresh and returning students to apply for and access the loan for the 2026/2027 academic session.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, NELFUND said students should determine whether to apply based on their individual financial circumstances and genuine need for assistance.

The statement was signed by the fund’s Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi.

NELFUND explained that the student loan scheme was established to remove financial barriers to higher education, promote equal access to learning opportunities and ensure that eligible Nigerians were not denied education because of financial difficulties.

It stressed that students who could independently afford their educational expenses were under no obligation to apply for or access the facility.

“The student loan scheme is a support mechanism, not an obligation,” the fund stated.

NELFUND added that making the loan compulsory for every student, regardless of their financial circumstances, would defeat the purpose of the programme.

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According to the agency, its objective is not to encourage indiscriminate borrowing but to ensure that eligible students who genuinely require financial assistance can access support to pursue their academic ambitions.

The clarification comes amid concerns over an internal memorandum reportedly issued by the management of the Enugu State College of Education (Technical).

The memorandum, dated October 6, 2026, and signed by the institution’s Acting Registrar, Patrick A. Aneke, reportedly directed all students in its Nigeria Certificate in Education and degree programmes to apply for the loan for the 2026/2027 academic session.

It also instructed deans, directors, heads of departments and student representatives to communicate the directive to students and asked them to visit the institution’s NELFUND desk officer for assistance with applications.

Reports surrounding the directive indicated that students who failed to comply could face restrictions on taking examinations or continuing their studies, raising concerns about the implications of compelling students to take loans.

NELFUND’s clarification reinforces the distinction between making financial assistance available to eligible students and requiring every student to borrow, irrespective of whether they need the support.

The fund further explained that although its loans are interest-free, beneficiaries are required to repay them in accordance with the provisions of the Student Loans Act.

It therefore urged prospective applicants to understand the scheme’s terms and conditions and make informed decisions before applying.

NELFUND also called on tertiary institutions, student leaders and other stakeholders to provide accurate information about the programme and guide students who require financial assistance through the application process.

The agency reiterated its commitment to ensuring that financial hardship does not prevent eligible Nigerians from pursuing higher education.

The development has renewed attention on the implementation of the Federal Government’s student loan programme and the need for institutions to ensure that students understand both the benefits and repayment obligations associated with the facility.

NELFUND maintained that the scheme should remain an avenue for financial support for students who need it, rather than a compulsory borrowing arrangement imposed on the entire student population.

NELFUND Warns Schools: Student Loans Are Voluntary, Not Compulsory

Education

Tinubu Scraps Recruitment Waiver Requirement for Federal Universities

Published

5 days ago

October 18, 2026

Trends Admin

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Scraps Recruitment Waiver Requirement for Federal Universities

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has exempted federal universities from the requirement to obtain recruitment waivers from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) before employing new staff, in a move aimed at strengthening institutional autonomy and easing recruitment bottlenecks in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

Tinubu announced the policy change on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the maiden convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), in Bauchi State. He was represented at the event by the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono.

The President, who serves as Visitor to all federal universities, said the reform was reflected in recent agreements signed between the Federal Government and university staff unions.

According to him, the decision would empower the Federal Ministry of Education and university governing councils to take responsibility for recruitment decisions and respond more effectively to their institutions’ staffing needs.

“This measure empowers the Federal Ministry of Education and university Governing Councils to discharge their respective responsibilities in staff recruitment, enabling institutions to respond more effectively to their legitimate manpower needs,” Tinubu said.

The removal of the waiver requirement is expected to reduce administrative delays that can hinder universities from filling vacant positions, replacing retiring employees and recruiting additional academic and non-academic personnel.

Under the previous arrangement, federal institutions could be required to obtain clearance from the OHCSF before recruiting new employees. Removing this requirement for federal universities is intended to give university authorities greater flexibility in addressing staffing shortages and managing their operations.

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However, the reform does not mean that universities are exempt from all public-sector recruitment rules or that appointments can be made without appropriate institutional procedures.

Tinubu said the policy formed part of his administration’s broader efforts to strengthen university autonomy, improve personnel management and create a more conducive environment for teaching, research, innovation and service delivery.

The President also disclosed that the Federal Government was working to improve personnel and payroll administration across tertiary institutions by migrating their staff from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) to the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS).

He said the transition was intended to improve payroll efficiency, strengthen transparency and accountability, ensure timely and accurate salary payments, and accommodate the operational peculiarities of universities and other tertiary institutions.

The proposed changes come amid longstanding discussions about the autonomy of Nigerian universities, including their ability to manage staffing, finances and other internal administrative responsibilities.

For universities struggling with shortages of lecturers, researchers, laboratory personnel and other essential workers, the removal of the recruitment waiver requirement could make it easier to respond to vacancies, subject to available funding and applicable recruitment procedures.

Beyond recruitment and payroll reforms, Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to investing in tertiary education infrastructure, research and staff welfare.

He disclosed that FUHSA had received an initial ₦8 billion intervention through TETFund to support its establishment. He said the investment followed lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed weaknesses in Nigeria’s healthcare system and highlighted the need to strengthen medical education and research capacity.

According to the President, further support would be channelled to the university through TETFund’s regular and special interventions, alongside allocations in the 2026 national budget for roads, lecture halls, laboratories and utility vehicles.

Tinubu also announced that ₦10 billion had been provided for the National Research Fund in 2026, urging universities, particularly specialised institutions such as FUHSA, to pursue research that addresses Nigeria’s pressing healthcare challenges.

On staff welfare, he said the Federal Government had signed agreements with academic and non-academic unions covering the payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) and the Consolidated Non-Teaching Tools Allowance (CONTTA), effective January 1, 2026.

He said the agreements recognised the distinct but complementary contributions of teaching and non-teaching personnel to the effective running of tertiary institutions.

Tinubu further disclosed that 1,798 FUHSA students, representing 43 per cent of the institution’s student population, had secured support from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The President congratulated the university’s 50 pioneer graduates and urged them to apply their knowledge and professional skills to improving healthcare delivery, particularly for vulnerable Nigerians.

He also encouraged FUHSA to strengthen partnerships with international institutions, including the University of Miami, Boston University and Universiti Sains Malaysia, while ensuring that such collaborations translate into measurable improvements in teaching, research and healthcare services.

The recruitment reform is expected to attract attention from university administrators, lecturers, non-academic staff and prospective employees as institutions assess how the new arrangement will affect recruitment timelines and staffing priorities.

Its impact will ultimately depend on how effectively university governing councils and the Federal Ministry of Education implement the policy, alongside adequate funding, transparent recruitment processes and effective oversight.

Tinubu Scraps Recruitment Waiver Requirement for Federal Universities

Education

JAMB Reopens NIN Alignment Window, Gives Candidates One More Chance to Correct Data

Published

7 days ago

October 16, 2026

Trends Admin

JAMB Reopens NIN Alignment Window, Gives Candidates One More Chance to Correct Data

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reopened its National Identification Number (NIN) alignment service, giving eligible candidates another opportunity to correct discrepancies between their examination records and information held by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

The examination body announced the development on Friday, October 16, 2026, through its official social media account, urging candidates with mismatched personal details to take advantage of the reopening and ensure their records are consistent.

However, JAMB warned that the opportunity is a one-time exercise and that submitting an application does not guarantee approval. All requests will be subjected to verification before a decision is made.

The board advised candidates to correct any errors in their NIN records through NIMC before applying to align their details with their JAMB profiles.

Applicants were also urged to review their information carefully and select every correction they require in a single submission to avoid mistakes that could affect the outcome of their applications.

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The discrepancies may involve names, dates of birth and other personal information, depending on the fields approved for correction under the service.

JAMB explained that the application procedure, eligible fields, verification requirements and other important details had been outlined in an accompanying episode of its JAMB Explained video series.

Candidates were advised to watch the official guide and follow the prescribed steps before submitting their applications. The board also cautioned against rushing the process or providing incomplete information.

To avoid complications, candidates should first ensure that any approved changes to their NIN records have been fully reflected in the NIMC database before beginning the alignment process with JAMB.

Those who need to update their NIN information can use the NIMC self-service modification portal at https://selfservicemodification.nimc.gov.ng or visit an authorised NIMC centre, subject to the applicable requirements.

After correcting their NIN details, candidates should follow the application channel and instructions specified in JAMB’s official announcement and accompanying video. They should rely on the board’s official website, https://www.jamb.gov.ng, and its e-Facility portal, https://efacility.jamb.gov.ng, for verified guidance.

The reopening is intended to improve the accuracy and consistency of personal records used in Nigeria’s tertiary admission process, where discrepancies between examination and national identity records can create verification difficulties.

JAMB urged candidates to act carefully, ensure that their information is accurate and wait for official confirmation rather than assume that their applications have been approved.