The Federal Government has backed the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in a planned investigation of vice chancellors accused of mismanaging Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) allocations.
ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, raised the alarm over weak oversight of TETFund projects in public universities, saying some vice chancellors have misused funds meant to improve academic infrastructure and learning outcomes.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja during the presentation of 72 TETFund-sponsored academic textbooks, Piwuna said, “There has been plenty of money allocated to universities in recent years, but much of it has not been utilised effectively. Some have mismanaged it, while others have diverted it for purposes other than intended.”
He added, “Many return because they know TETFund will release more funds the following year. There should be strict scrutiny, especially in the Centres of Excellence. Most centres are underperforming, and vice chancellors must be held accountable. We will soon shine the searchlight on universities to ensure proper management of funds.”
Reacting to ASUU’s concerns, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, promised government support. “Some vice chancellors, rectors, and provosts run their institutions like empires. We need ASUU’s help to ensure accountability. Every kobo must be used as intended, and we will work with ASUU to ensure compliance,” he said.
TETFund, established under the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act 2011, funds public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education through a two percent education tax on registered companies. Its mandate includes financing infrastructure, research, staff development, and instructional materials to enhance learning and academic quality.
ASUU and other stakeholders have long called for stronger oversight of TETFund allocations, citing project delays, guideline violations, and weak reporting, stressing that public resources must achieve their intended impact.
