President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate swap of the pro-chancellors and chairmen of the governing councils for the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), and Federal University, Lokoja.

In the reshuffling, Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), who currently serves as the pro-chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, will take over at FUOYE.

A statement on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said Kayode Ojo, who previously held a similar position at FUOYE, will now assume the role at Lokoja.

“This strategic change is part of President Tinubu’s initiative to foster diversity and national cohesion in the management of the country’s universities,” the statement added.

Earlier, the president dissolved the governing board of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra state, over the appointment of an “unqualified VC”.

Tinubu also approved the removal of Bernard Odoh, the new vice chancellor, and Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike, the registrar.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the dissolution of the governing council of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra state.

A statement by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said Tinubu also approved the removal of Bernard Odoh, the new vice chancellor, and Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike, the registrar.

The council, led by Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, included five other members: Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, Amioleran Osahon, and Funsho Oyeneyin.

“The sacking of the governing council and officials followed reports that the council illegally appointed an unqualified vice-chancellor without following due process,” the statement reads.

“After the controversial appointment, the Federal Government stepped in to address tensions between the university’s Senate and the governing council of the 23-year-old institution.

“The government expressed concern over the council’s apparent disregard for the university’s governing laws in its selection process.”

In another development, Tinubu also approved the removal of Ohieku Muhammed Salami as pro-chancellor and chair of the governing council of the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue state.

“This decision followed Salami’s illegal actions, including suspending the Vice-Chancellor without following proper procedures,” the statement adds.

“Despite a call from the Federal Ministry of Education to revoke the suspension, Salami refused to comply.

“Instead, he allegedly resorted to abusive and threatening behaviour toward the Ministry’s Directors, including the Permanent Secretary.”

He said the primary responsibility of university councils is to ensure the smooth running of university activities in line with the laws that establish them.

The president warned university councils not to create distractions as his government works to improve the country’s education system.

Canada has increased the permissible work hours for eligible international students during academic terms from 20 to 24 hours per week.

This adjustment aims to provide greater opportunities for students to gain work experience while maintaining their focus on academics.

Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister, stressed the intent behind this policy change, saying, “This change will give students more flexibility to manage their time and gain practical experience.”

The decision builds on remarks Miller made in October 2022 when he emphasized the importance of work experience for international students.

At the time, he stated: “With the economy growing at a faster rate than employers can hire new workers, Canada needs to look at every option so that we have the skills and workforce needed to fuel our growth.

“Immigration will be crucial to addressing our labour shortage. By allowing international students to work more while they study, we can help ease pressing needs in many sectors across the country, while providing more opportunities for international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience and continue contributing to our short-term recovery and long-term prosperity.”

Key Changes to the International Student Program
Full-Time Work During Academic Breaks

International students can now work full-time during designated academic breaks, such as summer and winter holidays. These periods allow students to increase their earnings without interfering with class schedules, bolstering their financial stability while continuing their education.

The updated regulations permit students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. This increase offers greater employment opportunities while ensuring students can maintain a sustainable study schedule.

Enhanced Reporting by Institutions

Designated Educational Institutions (DLIs) are now required to submit reports twice yearly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These reports will confirm students’ enrollment status and academic progress, ensuring compliance with study permit requirements and upholding the integrity of the International Student Program.

Approval for Institution Transfers

Under the new rules, international students must obtain approval before transferring to a different DLI. This requirement ensures adherence to permit conditions and maintains academic standards across Canada’s institutions.

Special Provisions for Quebec Students

In Quebec, eligible international students can work off-campus without a separate work permit, provided they meet specific criteria. Students must be enrolled full-time in post-secondary, vocational, or professional training programs, or vocational training at the secondary level. These courses must be at least six months long and lead to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate.

By introducing these measures, Canada aims to enhance opportunities for international students while addressing labour shortages in key sectors, ensuring a balance between work experience and academic success.