Nigeria’s Abuja University Acting Vice Chancellor, gets nod for tenure elongation

Nigeria

Locals residing in Nigeria’s capital city Abuja, have pleaded with the government to extend the tenure of Professor Patricia Lar, the acting vice-chancellor of the nation’s Yakubu Gowon University formerly named the University of Abuja.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by some residents residing in the city, one Bulus Zwahu and Zwakwachi Yohanna and made available to newsmen.

They stressed that the acting Vice Chancellor Prof Patricia Lar is doing a lot in the university and called on Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, to extend her tenure. 

The statement reads “We are pleased with the acting Vice Chancellor. We have seen the good works she has done. 

“There is massive transformation in the university and we are pleading that her tenure is extended”.

They lauded  Lar for the disciplinary measures introduced by her administration, which has contributed to the overall peace and massive development in the institution.

They described her leadership style as “humane and inclusive”, noting that the acting VC’s approach to governance has brought calm to the campus.

The added that the acting vice-chancellor has stabilised the university since her appointment in February.

They praised Tinubu for intervening and commended Tunji Alausa, the country’s Minister of Education, and  the university’s pro-chancellor, for their support for Lar.

“Lar has proven that she excels excellently in any task before her”.

According to some of the residents, she has ended staff victimisation, resumed dialogue with unions and student bodies, and addressed issues like stalled promotions and infrastructural decay.

Although her mandate is for six months, they want it extended to allow for the completion of ongoing reforms.

“We appeal to the government to extend her tenure so that she would continue to do the good works she is currently doing in the institution”, they added. 

“We are passing a vote of confidence on her for her good works and we call on her not to be distracted, but rather continue doing the good works she is doing in the institution”. 

They said Lar stands out as one of the most supportive and encouraging academic Vice Chancellor they have ever encountered in recent times . 

According to them “Her doors are always open to ideas, and she provides unwavering support to help students and researchers thrive.

“From what we have seen so far, we are confident that Lar is passionately committed to positioning the institution among the top-ranking universities not only in Nigeria or across Africa, but globally. 

“She is fully investing in anything that contributes to the advancement of the university. 

“Her leadership fosters a strong academic culture, inspiring both students and lecturers alike and empowering the next generation of researchers.

“We look forward to your rising. We will keep praying for you”, they added.