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…warns managements against diversion, misappropriation
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended the Federal Government for the disbursement of N38.93 billion revitalisation fund to 166 public tertiary institutions, while warning the managements of those institutions against diversion and misappropriation.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary General, Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, NANS described the intervention as an important step towards addressing infrastructural deficiencies and improving learning environment.
The disbursement, announced on Sunday, October 25, by the Federal Ministry of Finance, is under the Needs Assessment Revitalisation Fund, according to a statement by the ministry’s Head of Media, Efe Ovuakporie.
The breakdown shows 79 universities receiving N28.5 billion, 46 polytechnics receiving N5.8 billion, and 41 colleges of education receiving N4.7 billion.
The ministry said the intervention forms part of efforts to address the needs of public universities and support implementation of measures agreed with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) under a Memorandum of Understanding.
NANS said many institutions continue to grapple with dilapidated facilities, inadequate laboratories and workshops, and insufficient teaching equipment, and expects the fund to translate into visible improvements.
However, the association warned beneficiary managements against diversion.
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“NANS wishes to state unequivocally that the release of these funds must be matched by transparency, accountability and prudent utilisation. The Association warns all beneficiary institutions against the diversion, misappropriation or misuse of the funds,” Uthman said.
NANS said it has the full list of beneficiary institutions and will constitute a dedicated monitoring committee to track utilisation, assess impact on students and promote accountability.
“We will engage relevant institutional authorities, students union leadership, and other appropriate stakeholders to determine whether the intervention is producing the desired results,” the statement reads in part.
The association also called on relevant federal ministries and oversight agencies to strengthen supervision and ensure compliance, while charging Vice Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts to ensure projects are properly planned, transparently executed and open to scrutiny.
NANS under the leadership of Comrade Babatunde Akinteye commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to revitalisation of public tertiary institutions, noting that long-term development requires consistent funding and proper oversight.
The ministry had advised members of the public seeking details of beneficiary institutions and their allocations to visit its official website.
