A civil society organisation, Concerned Stakeholders for Educational Integrity (CSEI), has urged the Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, to ensure a transparent, merit-based process in selecting the institution’s next Vice-Chancellor.
The call followed the close of candidate submissions for the position. CSEI emphasised that AE-FUNAI needs a globally minded academic leader with proven competence, exceptional vision, and a strong record of administrative experience to sustain the university’s growth and reputation.
“The choice of the next Vice-Chancellor should reflect excellence, not expediency,” said Dr Agbochukwu Ifediba, CSEI’s coordinator. He stressed that political influence or sectional considerations should not determine the appointment, insisting that only a leader with international exposure, academic distinction, and the ability to forge national and global partnerships can drive research, innovation, and institutional development.
CSEI also urged staff, students, alumni, and the host community to support a process that prioritises character, competence, and broad administrative experience. The group warned that flawed recruitment in Nigerian universities has historically undermined progress, stressing that AE-FUNAI’s next leader should embody integrity, vision, and transformational leadership.
