FUTA Urges Nigerian Universities to Prioritise Quality Over Quantity.

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has called on Nigerian universities to focus on producing quality graduates rather than chasing higher enrolment numbers, warning against institutions turning into what it termed "degree mills." The appeal came on Thursday at FUTA's 15th Registry Annual Lecture, delivered by Professor of English Literature and Literary Analysis at the University of Lagos, Hope Eghagha, under the theme "Quality or Quantity: Rethinking Higher Education Administration in the 21st Century." Eghagha argued that Nigerian universities should measure success by the calibre of professionals they produce rather than sheer graduate numbers. "In 21st-century Nigeria, the true measure of our universities' success must shift entirely from merely producing large numbers of graduates to cultivating highly skilled, globally competitive professionals," he said, cautioning against institutions becoming "degree mills" and calling for standards that ensure every certificate reflects genuine expertise, innovation and character. He urged a stronger focus on strategic funding, rigorous accreditation and capacity building over unchecked enrolment growth as a path toward more credible outcomes. Also speaking at the event, FUTA Registrar Charles Adeleye appealed to alumni, corporate organisations and public-spirited individuals to support the university's registry operations, noting the effort required to keep administrative systems running smoothly. He said such support would help the registry stay responsive to the evolving demands of university administration and strengthen its capacity for effective service delivery. FUTA Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adenike Oladiji said the university remains committed to becoming a world-class institution of technology through excellence in teaching, research and service delivery, adding that FUTA would continue to engage critically with issues shaping higher education as part of broader efforts to improve Nigeria's university system.