Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reaffirmed his strong support for the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), declaring that the institution is academically on par with other traditional universities in the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit and alumni award presentation by NOUN officials at his residence, Obasanjo emphasised the importance of flexible and accessible higher education. The former president, who once enrolled as a student at the university and earned a PhD, said his experience had disproved claims that open universities offer substandard education.
“When people questioned the credibility of NOUN, I chose to experience it myself. I studied, I was supervised, and I earned my doctorate. The education was rigorous, and certainly not inferior,” Obasanjo remarked.
He noted that Nigeria’s evolving university system—from its earliest days with only the University of Ibadan to the current mix of federal, state, and private institutions—has still not bridged the gap in educational demand.
“The Open University was introduced to make education more accessible, particularly for working professionals and those unable to attend traditional universities. It is not a fallback option, but a progressive model,” he added.
Professor Ganiyat Adesina-Uthman, Director of the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages at NOUN, hailed the university’s continental significance, describing it as the largest of its kind in Africa.
She appealed to the former president for further support in areas such as scholarships for flagship programmes, infrastructure development—including a guest house and a 1,000-seat auditorium—and enhanced community engagement.
“We also aim to provide textbooks, uniforms, and water facilities to schools in our host communities,” she said.
The event also featured remarks from Professor Wilfred Ngwuanyi, Director of the Olusegun Obasanjo Centre for African Studies at NOUN, who praised Obasanjo’s intellectual leadership and requested assistance in forging partnerships with institutions such as the EFCC and the Chinese embassy.
Obasanjo was honoured at the event with an Alumni Award, recognising his enduring commitment to education and African development.
