Guest Columnist By Prof M. K. Othman
Today, I am sharing some of your opinions on my previous articles with my esteemed readers. The aim is to invite you to share your views on my views or on the country, adding perspective to the articles. The overall goal is to educate and inform the public while advising policymakers on the best way to handle the issues.
Three issues are discussed here: University Ranking, my Odyssey to Saudi Arabia, and Tribute to Arch. Kabir Ibrahim Faskari. Happy reading
Nigerian Universities on the Rise Again: Salute to the FGN and Academia
“Prof. M.K. Othman’s Scholarly Optimism on University Reforms in Nigeria: A Merged Review
Prof. M.K. Othman, himself an ASUU veteran and now a university administrator, writes as an insider who has witnessed both decay and recovery. In his words, “Relative peace is gradually returning to university campuses after a decade of unrest and agitation by ASUU and other unions, thanks to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s attentive listening and union leaders’ willingness to resolve contentious issues through give-and-take.”
In another piece on NELFUND, he notes: “Hitherto, the journey toward higher education in this country has long been a test of endurance and sacrifice… access to university education has more often been determined by financial capacity than by merit.”
A contextual reading of Othman’s optimism is grounded in his belief that the Tinubu administration’s educational reforms are appropriate and his prayer that the agreements be implemented faithfully to improve the quality, competitiveness, and global visibility of Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
As a critical stakeholder in tertiary education, Prof. Othman has established a governance template at FUDMA that aligns with the objectives of the new reforms. For instance, as Vice Chancellor, he insists that FUDMA will strictly adhere to due process and diligence in university governance. He believes that meritocracy must be used as a template for all university engagements. In his words, “When a system is dysfunctional… it produces unprepared professionals.”
Othman strongly believes in capacity building, and to demonstrate this commitment, he recently organized a training workshop for more than 200 new lecturers on teaching skills, mentorship, research, and professional ethics. His welfare initiatives are top-notch; the timely promotion and issuance of promotion letters to deserving staff on the first working day of October are unprecedented in the university’s history. His positive disposition toward implementing CATA, despite irregular funding sources, is commendable.
When a man performs his duties diligently, he deserves commendation. When he strays, he needs constructive criticism to get back on track. Prof. Othman’s admiration for the Tinubu reforms is not only appropriate; it reflects his abiding hope that the Nigerian university system can be made great again.”
-Prof. Kenneth Azaigba, Dept. of History & Strategic Studies, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.
“Good, thoughtful write-up. The University system in Nigeria needs reawakening. Your suggestions are well-intentioned and aligned with global best practices. The reported ranking is an attempt to document the research output and faculty of each University. The reports indicate that some older, mostly first-generation universities have input into the scholar profile.
This is quite unfortunate. It behooves each University to ensure that each faculty member enrolls in the scholar index. My esteemed regards, Prof.”
-Prof Rabiu Adamu
“A very insightful and encouraging piece, Prof. The progress our universities and scholars have made is certainly worth celebrating. More importantly, your article reminds us that this progress must be sustained through consistent funding, sound governance, research support, and a commitment to academic excellence. I look forward to the concluding part.”
-Usman Dalha Kankia
“Your article on the rise of universities is gratifying, and we hope Nigeria succeeds with good leadership. We also want to tell you that time is running out. Kudos to this hopeful situation.”
-Bala Ibrahim Adani
“My Odyssey to Saudi Arabia
The article about your recent visit to Saudi Arabia is apt, Prof! You’ve gone beyond the usual writing about infrastructure development, spiritual upliftment, etc., which are the first things visitors notice in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. And you’ve rightly captured the yearning for multiple returns that every visitor feels.
You quickly moved past that to go straight to the matter: The problems being faced by Nigerians out there. It’s a brilliant, flowing approach that keeps the reader engaged. The problems our people face there are really frustrating. It’s really sad! Nigerian authorities need to intervene urgently to address the situation.
The advice and solutions offered, free of charge, will go a long way to help Nigerians and Nigeria.
Congratulations, our able Prof.”
‘Dr. Hassan Gimba
“Tribute to Arch. Kabir Ibrahim Faskari (KEBRAM)
I was very close to him, so I didn’t know much about this affable man who, as this article reveals, disappeared to be with his Creator. He was so humble that when we needed to discuss an issue, he volunteered to drive to my home. I argued that, since I served as a technical advisor to POFAN, he was our boss and I should visit, but he declined.
We had quality time to discuss the crisis in All Farmers Associations of Nigeria (AFAN), and I suggested many things that he agreed to. His final words: “If Kabir is no longer around, AFAN will continue.” He further agreed to step down. My response to him when I narrated Obasanjo’s experience drew laughter from him.
Our last discussion focused on building historical narratives within AFAN to avoid a future leadership crisis. In his lifetime, he supported AFAN’s current President, Hon. Magaji, who will surely miss his wise counsel.
Ironically, he built his fortune as an architect, yet he is far better known globally as a force to be reckoned with in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He was a successful farmer, an excellent entrepreneur, and an ardent employer of labor, humble and a gentleman.
His death is sad and a great loss to the Country; may his soul rest in peace, amen.”
-Engr O. Akeju
“KEBRAM, as he was widely known in Katsina, was an entrepreneur who, during his lifetime, ventured into businesses ranging from education and health to agriculture. He also engaged youths in skill acquisition programs. He believed in self-empowerment and in using wealth to develop communities.
May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala forgive his imperfections and grant him Jannah. Amen.”
-Dr Aminu Yakubu
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