The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has urged prompt action to implement its decision to remove public universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The Council has instructed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to expedite this process, addressing a major grievance of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). ASUU has long opposed IPPIS, arguing it does not accommodate the unique needs of the academic environment.
In addition, the FEC has approved the establishment of a new National University of Science and Technology in Abuja. This follows an initial approval by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 28, 2023. The new university aims to be a pioneering institution in a planned network of Pan-African Institutes of Science and Technology, focusing on educating and training African scientists and technologists.
These decisions mark significant steps towards resolving issues within Nigeria’s higher education system and advancing scientific and technological education in the region.