Ex-minister challenges Igbinedion varsity to lead reform in tertiary education
Former Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Bank of Industry, Dr Mansur Muhtar, has called on Igbinedion University, Okada(IUO), Edo, to spearhead transformative reforms aimed at rescuing Nigeria’s struggling higher education system.
Muhtar made the call on Saturday in Benin while delivering the 26th Founder’s Day Lecture of the university, titled “Reimagining University Education in Nigeria for a More Sustainable Future.”
Commending the institution for pioneering private university education in Nigeria, Muhtar urged it to once again blaze a trail by redefining tertiary learning to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“Igbinedion University stands as a beacon of what vision and commitment can achieve.
“But as we celebrate its legacy, we must also confront the sobering reality, Nigerian university education is in crisis,” he said.
Muhtar identified outdated curricula, rote learning, poor infrastructure, underfunded research, and lack of real-world alignment as key barriers to progress in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
According to him, there is the need to move from incremental reforms to bold reimagination.
He proposed a five-pillar strategy to reposition higher education: dynamic and flexible curricula, experiential learning, digital infrastructure, impactful research, and ethical leadership.
He also challenged IOU to become Nigeria’s first fully sustainable smart campus, partner with tech firms for a digital innovation lab, and expand its entrepreneurship incubator.
“We must move from ‘publish or perish’ to ‘solve or stagnate,’” Muhtar declared, urging stronger collaboration among government, academia, and industry to halt the brain drain.
In his address, the university’s founder and Chancellor, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, represented by Deputy Chancellor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and national development.
“From humble beginnings, Igbinedion university has grown into a globally impactful institution,” he said, applauding the university’s journey of vision, resilience, and excellence.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, described the day as a moment of reflection and recommitment.
He noted that IUO, established on May 10, 1999, laid the foundation for private sector involvement in Nigerian higher education.
“We were founded at a time of zero private sector participation in tertiary education. Our pioneering role is both a responsibility and a legacy,” Ezemonye said NAN
