Nigeria's education ministry has ordered the Federal University of Technology, Owerri to scrap 24 aide positions in the Vice-Chancellor's office. The ministry said the appointments breached federal university regulations.
Acting Director of University Education Kareem O. L. signed the directive on June 25, 2026.
He was writing on behalf of the Education Minister.
The university had announced the appointments just three days earlier. A memorandum dated June 22, 2026 detailed the new positions in the Vice-Chancellor's office.
After reviewing the memo, the minister found serious problems. He determined the appointments violated established procedures and principles of due process within the federal university system.
The appointments were "irregular and at variance with extant regulations," according to the letter. Ministry officials said they failed to follow proper protocols.
FUTO must withdraw the memorandum immediately, the ministry ordered. The university also needs to send written proof of the withdrawal without further delay.
The directive quoted the minister's position directly: "The appointments, as presently constituted, are irregular and are at variance with the extant regulations, established procedures, and the principles of due process governing appointments within the Federal University System."
Beyond the immediate reversal, bigger conversations are coming. The Vice-Chancellor was summoned to ministry headquarters in Abuja for June 29, 2026.
Officials plan to discuss institutional governance at that meeting. Topics will include administrative accountability, due process compliance, and regulatory adherence.
The ministry emphasized its position clearly in closing remarks. Officials stressed their commitment to transparency, prudence, and best practices across Nigeria's tertiary institutions.
They expressed confidence FUTO would comply quickly with the order. The statement signalled the ministry expects immediate action from university leadership.
This development highlights ongoing tensions between federal education authorities and university administrations. It reflects broader concerns about governance standards in Nigeria's higher education sector.
