Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, has called on Nigerian universities to actively pursue international students as a strategy to enhance their revenue base. He made this call during the 13th convocation lecture of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), where he addressed the ongoing funding challenges within the country’s tertiary education sector.
Gbajabiamila noted that many universities across the world sustain themselves financially through the fees paid by international students, who are often charged significantly more than local students. He pointed to examples in the United Kingdom and the United States, where this model helps fund operations and subsidize education for citizens.
To compete on the global stage, he urged Nigerian institutions to focus on improving the quality of education, updating academic curricula, incorporating modern teaching practices, and upholding high ethical standards. He stressed the need for investments in infrastructure and technology to create learning environments that meet international expectations.
In addition, he criticized the rapid proliferation of universities in Nigeria, warning that the focus on quantity over quality has led to a decline in academic standards. He encouraged institutions to explore alternative funding sources, including collaborations with the private sector and income-generating initiatives, to reduce overreliance on government support.
Gbajabiamila concluded by emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms in the university system. He called for greater accountability, innovation, and a strong commitment to excellence in order to reposition Nigerian universities as globally competitive institutions capable of attracting students from around the world.
