By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria — The Forum of Governing Council Members in Nigeria Tertiary Institutions (FOGOCOM) has called on Nigerians to unite in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and rally behind his potential second-term bid in 2027.
The call was made during a national press conference on the Renewed Hope Unprecedented Support for Tertiary Institutions and the Governing Councils
held on Saturday in Abuja, where the forum assessed progress in the tertiary education sector under the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, its leader, Chief (Dr.) Akin-Thomas Babajide, emphasized the need for continuity in leadership to sustain ongoing reforms, particularly in education.
The event commenced with a solemn minute of silence in honour of victims of insecurity across the country, including those affected by insurgency, banditry, and terrorism. The forum also offered prayers for those still in captivity and extended condolences to bereaved families.
FOGOCOM commended the Federal Government for what it described as “unprecedented support” to tertiary institutions, citing improvements in infrastructure, funding, research, staff welfare, and student support initiatives.
Among the key achievements highlighted was the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), through which over 1.38 million students have reportedly benefited, with more than ₦242 billion disbursed for tuition and upkeep allowances. The forum noted that the scheme has significantly reduced financial barriers to higher education.
The council also pointed to investments in human capital development, including the deployment of ₦110 billion through TETFund to rehabilitate medical schools across 18 universities, as well as the Energising Education Project, which has provided solar-powered electricity to several federal institutions.
FOGOCOM members said these interventions have improved institutional stability, enhanced governance, and strengthened the capacity of tertiary institutions to deliver quality education.
“As representatives on governing councils, we have witnessed firsthand the positive transformation across institutions. These reforms must be sustained,” the forum stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group urged Nigerians to support the continuation of the current administration, arguing that policy consistency would consolidate gains already recorded.
In addition, the forum appealed to the Federal Government to extend the tenure of governing councils in polytechnics and colleges of education from three to four years to allow for better policy implementation and institutional stability.
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Responding to questions from journalists, FOGOCOM members acknowledged ongoing security challenges but expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to address them. They also alleged that some security incidents were politically motivated, while reaffirming their support for the administration’s approach to tackling insecurity.
The forum further reiterated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s tertiary education system and called for collective responsibility among stakeholders to ensure sustainable development in the sector.
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