Concerns have been raised by the Academic Staff Union of Universities regarding the growing trend of Nigerian lecturers relocating to other countries.
During an interview, ASUU’s national president, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, emphasized the potential impact on Nigerian universities due to the increasing departure of qualified lecturers.
Osodeke pointed out the key challenges faced by lecturers, particularly in 2024.
“Lecturers are encountering financial difficulties, with many struggling to meet their basic needs. Moreover, the government still owes us several months of arrears and a full year of wage awards. This has led to a significant number of lecturers seeking better opportunities abroad. If this trend continues, Nigerian universities could face a severe shortage of qualified lecturers.”
“Despite the government’s establishment of new universities, the critical issue of staffing has been overlooked. Only a limited number of qualified lecturers are currently teaching in our institutions, raising concerns about the competence of the teaching workforce if this issue is not addressed promptly,” he added.
Addressing the funding challenges faced by university professors, he expressed, “Surviving on a monthly income of N450,000 is a daunting task for professors, especially considering the high expenses, including over N200,000 on fuel due to recent price hikes. With the escalating costs of utilities and living, lecturers and students are facing increasing hardships. The difficulties faced by students in attending school under these circumstances are unimaginable.”