On September 3, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the appointment of Professor Yahaya Isa Bunkure as the Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Federal University of Education, Zaria (FUEZ) in Kaduna State. The announcement, made through a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also included the appointments of Engineer Abdurrazaq Abubakar Nakore as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano, and Professor Abdullahi Tukur Kodage as Vice-Chancellor of the same institution. These appointments mark a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s teacher education sector and advancing the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for educational reform. With Professor Bunkure’s extensive experience in science education and academic leadership, his appointment is poised to shape the future of FUEZ as it transitions from a Federal College of Education to a full-fledged university.
Context of the Appointments
The Federal University of Education, Zaria, and Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano, are among four former Federal Colleges of Education upgraded to full-fledged universities between 2022 and 2023. This policy shift, driven by the Federal Government, aims to enhance teacher training, elevate the quality of education, and address Nigeria’s chronic shortage of qualified educators. The other upgraded institutions include those in Pankshin, Plateau State, and Ila-Orangun, Osun State. These upgrades reflect a broader strategy to modernize Nigeria’s education system, align it with global standards, and produce educators equipped to meet the demands of the 21st-century classroom.
President Tinubu’s appointments signal a commitment to ensuring that these new universities are led by experienced and visionary leaders capable of driving academic excellence and institutional growth. Professor Bunkure, a renowned academic specializing in science education, brings a wealth of experience to FUEZ. He is currently the Vice-Chancellor of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano, a position he has held with distinction, earning him respect in academic circles for his contributions to teacher training and curriculum development. Similarly, Engineer Nakore, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and former Executive Secretary of the Rural Electricity Board in Jigawa State, brings administrative and technical expertise to his role as Pro-Chancellor in Kano. Professor Kodage, appointed as Vice-Chancellor in Kano, is a seasoned scholar expected to steer the institution toward academic and administrative excellence.
The appointments come at a critical time for Nigeria’s education sector, which faces challenges such as inadequate funding, outdated curricula, and a shortage of qualified teachers. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Nigeria needs approximately 1.2 million additional teachers to meet the demands of its growing population and achieve universal basic education by 2030. The establishment of specialized universities of education, led by capable administrators like Professor Bunkure, is seen as a strategic move to address this gap and elevate the teaching profession.
Professor Yahaya Isa Bunkure: A Profile in Academic Leadership
Professor Yahaya Isa Bunkure is a distinguished academic with a career rooted in science education, a field critical to Nigeria’s aspirations for technological advancement and innovation. His tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano has been marked by significant achievements, including the introduction of innovative teacher training programs, curriculum reforms, and partnerships with international institutions. Bunkure’s expertise in science education is particularly relevant for FUEZ, which aims to produce educators capable of teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects effectively.
Bunkure’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in education, earning degrees that equipped him with both theoretical and practical knowledge in pedagogy. His research has focused on improving science education methodologies, with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning and the integration of technology in the classroom. As Vice-Chancellor of Sa’adatu Rimi University, he implemented policies that enhanced teacher training, promoted research, and improved infrastructure, positioning the institution as a leader in educational excellence in northern Nigeria.
His appointment to FUEZ is seen as a natural progression, given his track record and deep understanding of the challenges facing teacher education in Nigeria. Colleagues describe Bunkure as a visionary leader with a passion for mentoring young educators and fostering a culture of academic rigor. “Professor Bunkure’s appointment is a game-changer for FUEZ,” said Dr. Aisha Mohammed, a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. “His experience in science education and institutional leadership will help the university establish itself as a center of excellence.”
The Role of FUEZ in Nigeria’s Education Landscape
The Federal University of Education, Zaria, is poised to play a pivotal role in addressing Nigeria’s teacher shortage and improving the quality of education. Established as part of the Federal Government’s initiative to upgrade Colleges of Education, FUEZ is tasked with training educators who can deliver high-quality instruction across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The university’s mandate includes developing innovative curricula, conducting research in education, and fostering partnerships with schools and communities to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
Zaria, a historic city in Kaduna State, is an ideal location for such an institution, given its rich academic heritage. Home to Ahmadu Bello University, one of Nigeria’s premier institutions, Zaria has long been a hub for education and research in northern Nigeria. The establishment of FUEZ adds to this legacy, positioning the city as a center for teacher training and educational innovation. The university is expected to attract students from across Nigeria, particularly from the northern region, where access to quality education remains a challenge.
FUEZ’s transition from a Federal College of Education to a full-fledged university comes with significant responsibilities. The institution must develop new academic programs, upgrade its infrastructure, and recruit qualified faculty to meet the standards of a university. Professor Bunkure’s five-year tenure, as stipulated by the institution’s governing laws, will be critical in laying the foundation for these changes. His experience at Sa’adatu Rimi University, where he successfully navigated similar challenges, suggests that he is well-equipped to lead FUEZ through this transformative phase.
Broader Implications for Educational Reform
President Tinubu’s appointments are part of a broader effort to reform Nigeria’s education sector under the “Renewed Hope” agenda. Launched in 2023, the agenda prioritizes education as a cornerstone of national development, with a focus on improving access, quality, and relevance. The upgrading of Colleges of Education into universities reflects this vision, aiming to elevate the status of the teaching profession and attract talented individuals to the field. By appointing experienced leaders like Bunkure, Nakore, and Kodage, the administration is signaling its commitment to ensuring that these new institutions succeed.
The appointments also come at a time when Nigeria’s education sector is grappling with systemic challenges. According to the World Bank, Nigeria’s education system suffers from low funding, with only 5–6% of the national budget allocated to education, compared to UNESCO’s recommended 15–20%. This has resulted in dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate teaching materials, and low teacher morale. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has repeatedly called for increased funding and better working conditions, with strikes disrupting academic calendars in recent years.
The establishment of specialized universities like FUEZ is seen as a step toward addressing these issues by focusing on teacher training, which is critical to improving educational outcomes. Teachers are the backbone of any education system, and their quality directly impacts student performance. By producing well-trained educators, FUEZ can help bridge the gap between Nigeria’s current educational realities and its aspirations for global competitiveness.
Challenges and Opportunities for FUEZ
As FUEZ embarks on its journey as a university, it faces several challenges. The transition from a college to a university requires significant investment in infrastructure, faculty development, and curriculum design. The institution must also navigate the bureaucratic complexities of Nigeria’s higher education system, including accreditation processes overseen by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Ensuring that FUEZ meets these standards while maintaining a focus on teacher education will be a delicate balancing act.
Funding is another critical challenge. Nigeria’s public universities often struggle with inadequate budgets, leading to overcrowded classrooms, outdated facilities, and limited research opportunities. FUEZ will need to secure sustainable funding to build state-of-the-art facilities, attract top talent, and support research in education. Public-private partnerships, international grants, and alumni support could play a role in addressing this issue.
Despite these challenges, FUEZ has significant opportunities to make a lasting impact. The global demand for STEM education presents a chance for the university to specialize in training science and technology teachers, aligning with Nigeria’s push for industrialization and innovation. Partnerships with international universities and organizations, such as UNESCO or the World Bank, could enhance FUEZ’s capacity to deliver world-class education. Additionally, the university’s location in Zaria offers access to a diverse student population and a vibrant academic community, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Public and Academic Reactions
The announcement of Professor Bunkure’s appointment has been met with widespread approval from academic and civil society groups. The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) praised the appointment, describing Bunkure as “a seasoned educator with a proven track record in transforming institutions.” The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) also welcomed the move, urging the government to provide adequate funding to support FUEZ’s development. “The success of these new universities depends on sustained investment and autonomy,” said ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke.
On social media platforms like X, reactions have been largely positive, with users commending President Tinubu for appointing experienced leaders to the new universities. However, some voices have raised concerns about the government’s broader education policies, including the need to address teacher welfare and infrastructure deficits. “Appointing a VC is a good start, but what about funding and teacher training?” asked a user on X, reflecting a sentiment shared by many education stakeholders.
The Role of Leadership in Shaping FUEZ’s Future
As Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bunkure will play a central role in shaping FUEZ’s identity and mission. His five-year tenure provides an opportunity to establish a strong foundation for the university, focusing on academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Key priorities for Bunkure will likely include:
Curriculum Development: Designing programs that prepare teachers for modern classrooms, with an emphasis on STEM, digital literacy, and inclusive education.
Faculty Recruitment: Attracting qualified educators and researchers to build a robust academic team.
Infrastructure Development: Upgrading facilities to meet university standards, including libraries, laboratories, and digital learning platforms.
Community Engagement: Partnering with schools and communities in Kaduna State to provide practical training opportunities for students and address local education challenges.
Bunkure’s experience at Sa’adatu Rimi University suggests that he is well-prepared to tackle these priorities. His ability to foster collaboration, secure funding, and implement innovative programs will be critical to FUEZ’s success.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s appointment of Professor Yahaya Isa Bunkure as Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Zaria, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to reform its education sector. As one of the newly upgraded universities of education, FUEZ has the potential to transform teacher training and address Nigeria’s pressing need for qualified educators. Bunkure’s expertise in science education and his proven leadership make him an ideal candidate to lead this institution into a new era of excellence.
The appointments of Engineer Nakore and Professor Kodage to the Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano, further demonstrate the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector. However, the success of these institutions will depend on sustained funding, effective leadership, and collaboration with stakeholders. As FUEZ embarks on its journey, it has the opportunity to become a model for teacher education in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s development and global competitiveness.
This development is a testament to the importance of visionary leadership in addressing Nigeria’s educational challenges. With Professor Bunkure at the helm, FUEZ is poised to make a lasting impact, not only in Kaduna State but across Nigeria and beyond. As the nation watches, the hope is that FUEZ will rise to the occasion, producing educators who will shape the minds of future generations and drive Nigeria’s progress toward a knowledge-based economy.
