Merit Over Favour: Professor Lar’s Unity Appointments at Yakubu Gowon University

The list of appointees is as impressive as it is diverse. Professor Wesley Daniel Nafarnda takes the helm as Director of Academic Planning, bringing his expertise to ensure the university’s academic programs remain robust and forward-thinking. Dr. Idoko Sunday Idoko, appointed as Dean of Students Affairs, alongside his Deputy, Dr. Noela Chinyolu Igwemmar, promises a student-centric approach that bridges cultural divides. The Postgraduate School is in capable hands with Professor Siyan Peter as Dean and Professor Rafatu Abdul Hamid as Deputy Dean, ensuring advanced studies flourish under their leadership. Meanwhile, Professor Binta Zaifada, Director of the Institute of Education, and Professor Ahmadu Yusuf, Director of the Center for Distance Learning, are set to expand educational access across the region.

Further appointments reflect a holistic vision for the university. Professor Dahida Phillip, leading the TETFUND Abuja Leadership Center, and Dr. Adeniran Apello Ariyo, heading SIWES, bring practical and industry-aligned perspectives. Professor Rachel Toyosi Idowu, as Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship Development, alongside her Deputy, Dr. Theresa Ndule, will foster innovation and economic empowerment. Professor Olumide Owolabi, steering Information Technology Management Services, and Professor Emmanuel Ejeikwu, overseeing Basic and Remedial Studies, ensure the university remains technologically adept and educationally inclusive.

The inclusivity extends to specialized centers and units. Professor Margaret Bahal leads the Servicom Unit, emphasizing service delivery, while Professor Olarenwaju Oladeitan drives the Development Office. Dr. Nasiru Muktar heads the International Center, fostering global connections, and Professor Mohammad Balarabe, with Deputy Dr. Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, oversees the General Studies Unit. Dr. Eugene U. Okolocha directs the Center for Legislative Studies, and Professor Ladi Sule Matinja leads Advancement efforts, supported by a cadre of directors addressing corruption, community development, sustainability, and more—names like Professor Philip Akpen, Dr. Mhah Chibuzor, and Professor Ben Obi stand out.

From health services under Dr. Manmak Marven to gender security led by Dr. Theresa Akpan Abok, and creative writing under Dr. Rasheedat Akanbi, the appointments span every facet of university life. Professor Kasim Musa Waziri’s leadership at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Peace, Leadership & Development Studies encapsulates the university’s unifying ethos. This diverse team—representing various tribes, faculties, and expertise—embodies a microcosm of Nigeria itself, making Yakubu Gowon University a beacon of national unity.

What makes these individuals the best for their roles is not just their credentials but their proven track records and alignment with the university’s mission. Professor Lar’s leadership has prioritized competence over connections, selecting appointees with the vision to elevate academic standards, foster research, and bridge societal gaps. Their collective experience spans education, technology, entrepreneurship, and social development, ensuring a well-rounded administration capable of addressing modern challenges. This is a team that understands the pulse of both the academic community and the nation at large, poised to turn challenges into opportunities.

As Yakubu Gowon University embarks on this transformative journey, one can only wish Professor Patricia Manko Lar and her administration resounding success. May their tenure be marked by innovation, unity, and progress, setting a standard for what a truly merit-based, inclusive institution can achieve. The nation watches with hope, and the university stands ready to deliver on its promise.