Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

NOUN: Obasanjo advocates reforms, canvasses return of Law programmes

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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for key reforms at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), including the restoration of its Law programmes, increased student enrolment, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its academic system.

The Director of Media and Publicity, NOUN, Ibrahim Sheme, in a statement indicated that the former President made the suggestion on Friday while hosting the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma, and his management team at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Obasanjo highlighted the need for academic advancement through innovation and technology, urging the university leadership to prioritise modernisation and expand access to education.

Responding, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi A. Peters, noted that the university has already taken significant steps towards integrating AI into its academic content.

He added that these efforts have earned NOUN several recognitions from international educational bodies.

On enrolment, Prof. Peters disclosed that the university currently has about 300,000 registered students, with approximately 190,000 actively engaged, explaining that the gap reflects varying levels of participation.

He expressed confidence in the leadership of the new Vice-Chancellor, stating that Professor Uduma is committed to sustaining innovation and advancing institutional development.

In his remarks, Professor Uduma pledged to prioritise the revival of the Law programme and strengthen ongoing reforms.

He also thanked Obasanjo for his continued support and contributions to the growth of the institution.

Laterat the Director of the Abeokuta Study Centre of the university, Oyekunle Adegboyega, received the Vice Chancellor and conducted him and the visiting team on a tour of the facility’s offices.