Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), the visionary behind Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), strongly believes that the Nigerian Educational System will only improve if the National Universities Commission (NUC) shuts down all substandard institutions and study centres scattered throughout the country. Failure to do so will result in a continued decline in the quality of Education in Nigeria. During the ceremony held at the Alfa Belgore Hall on the university campus, Babalola shared his remarks after being honoured with the title of Fellow of King’s College, London, to recognise his significant impacts on education and society.
The renowned lawyer and respected statesman has identified the spread of small, decentralised educational institutions as the primary threat to quality learning in the country and throughout Africa. These satellite campuses and study centres have strayed far from their original purpose, posing a significant challenge to the educational system. Several institutions have been deemed illegal by authorities, yet they continue to operate, supposedly beginning operations without the NUC approval. The National University Commission is expected to shut down all unauthorised universities, as many illegal institutions have started operating without their approval.
Babalola was honoured for his contributions to academics and society.
Afe Babalola pointed out that these institutions are significant challenges to providing high-quality, effective education in the country and globally. The legal expert remembered when the NUC had publicly released the names of illegal university owners, but he wondered why no arrests had been made. He mentioned how university staff members can escape punishment and legal consequences while new universities are continuously constructed without repercussions. Biodun Oyebanji, the Governor of Ekiti State, praised the founders for their significant achievements in law, medicine, science and invention.
Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, the recently appointed state Head of Service, spoke on behalf of Oyebanji, stating that his contributions to every sector had solidified his position as the state’s father. She emphasised his outstanding compassion and influence, which had placed him above any challenges he faced. Also, Prof. Funmi Olonisakin, the Vice President of King’s College London for International Engagement and Service, expressed that Babalola was honoured with the fellowship award due to his significant impact on society as a legal expert.
Education system continues to face challenges of corruption and inequality.
Furthermore, Aare Afe Babalola was honoured by the gathering at King’s College, London, where he received the fellowship traditionally granted to individuals who have had a significant impact on either society or the college itself, as she expressed. Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, the university’s Vice Chancellor, expressed gratitude in a welcoming speech to King’s College, London, for honouring the founder of ABUAD. The vice chancellor praised the inauguration as highly appropriate, acknowledging Babalola’s contributions to schools and various aspects of life.
In addition, Corruption within the system further increases these challenges, with reports of embezzlement and mismanagement of funds leading to a lack of accountability and transparency. This impacts the quality of learning and erodes trust in the system. Also, limited access to schooling for marginalised groups such as girls, children in rural areas, and those with disabilities perpetuates inequality and hinders the country’s overall development. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that prioritises Investment in instruction, enforces accountability measures, and promotes inclusive policies to ensure equal access and quality learning.
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Lastly, another critical challenge is the qualification and training of faculty members. Many educators in the country need to be sufficiently trained and qualified, affecting the overall quality of instruction. Continuous Professional Development is often neglected, leading to a gap in applying modern teaching methodologies. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive reform strategy that includes better funding, investment in infrastructure, and a focus on enhancing Teacher training programs to ensure that educators are well-equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic academic landscape.