By The immediate past Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius Okojie, has said he left the university system better than it was 10 years ago.
Speaking yesterday at a brief handover ceremony in Abuja, Okojie who came into the commission as a visiting professor in 2002 before becoming its chief executive attributed his achievements to teamwork.
He, therefore, thanked the directors, stakeholders and the media for the support he received during his tenure.
Okojie said he had been driven by the fear of God and love for neighbour, enjoiniing the new Acting Executive Secretary, Professor Chinedu Mafiana and his team to steer the wheel of the university system with courage.
“We have reviewed the university curriculum. The university system is better. I have served four presidents and a number of ministers. I did not say I will be a consultant, but I can be consulted. If I know anything that will help, I will tell the government,” he said.
Speaking on the quality of teaching in the nation’s universities at the moment, Okojie said only parents who were poor at heart that would send their children to universities in Ghana, adding that many Nigerian students were returning home.
“Some are suffering from hatred and discrimination in their host countries. This country is good for us. I will continue to be in the system. I am going back to Abeokuta to teach,” he asserted.
Mafiana, in his speech, eulogised his predecessor. “Professor Okojie has always been a mentor. We will continue to regulate with courage. We will continue to carry all stakeholders along. Not much will change regarding the open door policy. We count on your support. Power belongs to God and power will be wielded with humility for as long as it lasts,” he said, soliciting support from directors of the commission.
