The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns over the growing politicisation of academic staff recruitment in Nigerian universities, warning that political interference could weaken the quality and credibility of tertiary education.
The union also criticised the practice of converting non-academic staff into academic positions without following the required recruitment and qualification processes.
ASUU Zonal Coordinator for the Bauchi Zone, Prof. Timothy Namo, made the remarks during a press conference at the University of Jos.
According to Namo, prolonged delays in recruiting academic staff have created significant manpower gaps across universities, while political interference is further complicating the situation.
He alleged that some politicians, including senators and members of state Houses of Assembly, now influence recruitment by submitting lists of candidates who may not meet the requirements for academic appointments.
“Senators, members of the House of Assembly and high-profile politicians would bring in lists of candidates, most of whom would not be qualified to be absorbed as academic staff.”
ASUU Warns of Threat to Academic Standards
ASUU President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, described the trend as dangerous to the future of university education in Nigeria.
He also raised concerns over the conversion of senior non-academic staff to academic positions without the necessary training and qualifications, stressing that recruitment and promotion into academic roles must follow established standards.
According to the union, universities require qualified lecturers and researchers capable of teaching, conducting research and contributing to national development.
Union Seeks Government Engagement
Piwuna also expressed concern over what he described as the lack of direct engagement between the Federal Government and university lecturers.
He said ASUU had not had an interface with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for three years, describing the situation as disappointing for a union representing the country’s academic community.
The ASUU president called on the federal, state and local governments to prioritise policies that address citizens’ socio-economic challenges and strengthen public institutions.
The union’s warning comes amid broader concerns over funding, staff shortages, university autonomy and the quality of higher education in Nigeria.
For Nigeria’s universities to produce globally competitive graduates, ASUU argues that academic recruitment must be driven by merit, qualifications and institutional needs—not political connections.
