Vice Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof Lawrence I. Ezemonye, has called for more substantial support from Nigerians to sustain the institution through its Endowment Fund.
Speaking at the recent launch of the book Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion – The Chronicles of a Legend in Abuja, Prof Ezemonye emphasised that world-class universities thrive not only on tuition fees and government subvention but also on sustainable financial vehicles such as endowments.
He noted that endowment funds guarantee stability and long-term support for academic excellence and competitiveness, citing Harvard and Oxford Universities as examples where private citizens have played a crucial role in building enduring academic legacies.
Established in 1999 as Nigeria’s first private university, Igbinedion University has been at the forefront of expanding access to quality tertiary education.
However, unlike their counterparts abroad, Nigerian institutions, according to Ezemonye, have yet to enjoy adequate public buy-in and long-term funding support. The Vice Chancellor urged Nigerians to emulate global best practices by supporting private institutions that complement the government’s role in nation-building. “An endowment fund ensures financial stability and strengthens a university’s competitiveness,” he said.
Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, founder of the institution, marked his 91st birthday on September 11, with tributes from across Nigeria celebrating his contribution to education.
