Despite controversies and protests surrounding the appointment process, the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) has officially appointed Professor Aisha Maikudi as its new Vice-Chancellor. The announcement was made by the Acting Director of Public Affairs, Habib Yakoob, on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.
Professor Maikudi’s appointment has sparked criticism from some stakeholders who claim she lacks the required experience for the role. Reports suggest that divisions within the University Governing Council marred the appointment process, with some members allegedly boycotting meetings related to the selection. However, despite these hurdles, the council approved her appointment during its 77th Extraordinary Meeting, citing her emergence as the best candidate among 10 shortlisted individuals. Her five-year tenure is set to commence on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Born on January 31, 1983, Professor Aisha Maikudi boasts an impressive academic background. She earned her law degree from the University of Reading and later obtained a Ph.D. in International Law from the University of Abuja. Joining the University of Abuja as a lecturer in 2008, she steadily rose through the academic ranks and was promoted to Professor in 2022.
As a Professor of International Law, Maikudi has made significant contributions to academia. She has published several scholarly papers and actively participated in both national and international conferences. Her appointment as Vice-Chancellor is seen as recognition of her dedication to academia, research excellence, and leadership skills.
In a related development, UNIABUJA recently announced an increase in tuition fees. Medical students are now required to pay N250,000 and above, while students in the Arts and related faculties will pay between N80,000 and N100,000 or more. According to the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, the fee hike aims to enhance the university’s academic standards and ensure students receive quality education.
The announcement of Professor Maikudi’s appointment marks a significant milestone in UNIABUJA’s leadership journey. While controversies persist, her supporters believe her tenure will usher in positive reforms and strengthen the university’s commitment to academic excellence.