The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Zaria, on Wednesday, 29th April 2026, attended a Congress of the academic staff of the University where he witnessed the official transition of their union from the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
A statement signed by the media aide to the VC Sani Lawal maqarphy said the transition follows the steady alignment of all unions and programmes in the upgraded institution with the ideals and structure of the Nigerian university system.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor commended the Congress for its maturity and decorum, noting the cordial and harmonious working relationship between the union and the university management.
Prof. Yahaya Isa Bunkure congratulated both the Congress and the executive council on the successful migration to ASUU, while acknowledging the decision to maintain the existing leadership structure.
He extolled the Chairman, Dr. Ubale Isma’ila Alhaji, for his transparency and openness to members, further congratulating him and his council members for retaining the confidence of the Congress, which has entrusted them with the continued responsibility of steering the affairs of the union.
Speaking on academic staff promotions, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the process is continuous and strictly merit-based. He revealed that over 100 academic staff were presented for promotion to the rank of Professor; however, only 43 were successfully elevated, alongside 15 promoted to the rank of Associate Professor, following rigorous internal and external assessments.
Prof. Bunkure explained that the candidates’ works were subjected to thorough evaluation by external assessors from more than seven universities, in compliance with the standards of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The Vice-Chancellor added that he was particularly impressed by the quality of the newly promoted professors, noting that each had over ten scholarly publications that met university standards.
Prof. Bunkure concluded by boosting the morale of the academic community, announcing that the university is commencing the placement of other staff, with further promotions to follow immediately.
In recognition of his contributions, the Vice-Chancellor was presented with a commendation letter by the union for his role in promoting stability, advancing staff welfare, and demonstrating unwavering commitment to the development of the university.
