Ethnicity and Management of Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria: The Experience of College of Education. Oju, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

A common phenomenon in the management of tertiary institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, etc) in Nigeria in recent times is a situation whereby the top hierarchies of these institutions are manned by personnel from within the locality. This development is a far cry from the practice in the past and, worldwide as the idea of universality underlying the operations of these institutions suggests that the best hand is engaged from any part of the world. This paper analyses the implication of this development on Nigeria’s educational system. Using the College of Education, Oju, Benue State, Nigeria, as case study, the paper pointed out the negative effects of this development to include unbridled mediocrity, mistrust, lowering of standards, among others. The paper noted that a tertiary institution is established to produce critical original thinkers, men and women of universal character. It therefore emphasizes on skilled manpower particularly at management level, being sought from around the World and, not confined to a particular locality.

Keywords: Ethnicity. Education, management, tertiary institutions,