Adebayo Shittu, a seasoned Nigerian politician and former Minister of Communications under President Muhammadu Buhari, has emphatically denied lobbying for his recent appointment as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Dave Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences in Ebonyi State. This appointment, one among many announced by President Bola Tinubu for various federal universities, sparked speculation and conjecture, with some suggesting that these appointments were a consolation prize for individuals who had failed to secure ministerial positions in Tinubu’s cabinet. Shittu, however, refutes these claims, asserting that the appointment was unexpected and received with gratitude, albeit not the executive role he had envisioned for himself.
Shittu’s political trajectory boasts a rich history of public service, commencing with his appointment as Commissioner in the old Oyo State at the young age of 30. He held the portfolios of Home Affairs, Information, and Culture during his first stint as Commissioner. Years later, he served as Attorney General of Oyo State before ascending to the national stage as Minister of Communications. Given this extensive background in executive positions, Shittu emphasizes that lobbying for the Pro-Chancellor role was not in his purview. He aspired to a more hands-on position where he could leverage his decades of experience to contribute directly to policy formulation and implementation. Despite his initial surprise, Shittu has embraced the challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to excel in a new domain and contribute to the growth and development of the university.
The location of the university, nestled in the heart of Igboland, initially presented a source of apprehension for Shittu. Prevailing narratives surrounding insecurity in the South-East region had fueled concerns about his safety and well-being. However, his experience in Ebonyi State has proven to be a revelation, dispelling pre-conceived notions and showcasing the region’s beauty and tranquility. Contrary to his fears, Shittu describes Ebonyi as a peaceful and welcoming environment, akin to a “homecoming” experience. He expresses admiration for the state’s peaceful atmosphere, contrasting it favorably with other areas within Igboland.
Shittu’s interaction with the university’s management has further solidified his positive experience. He lauds the cooperative and collaborative spirit exhibited by the management team and the governing council, fostering an environment conducive to achieving shared goals. Motivated by this collaborative spirit, Shittu is determined to dedicate his efforts to ensuring the university’s continued progress and advancement. He envisions a future where the institution flourishes and achieves remarkable growth under his stewardship.
This unexpected appointment has not only provided Shittu with a new avenue for service but has also offered him a fresh perspective on Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape. His initial anxieties about the South-East have been replaced by a newfound appreciation for the region’s beauty and the warmth of its people. This experience underscores the importance of firsthand engagement in challenging preconceived notions and fostering understanding across cultural divides.
In conclusion, Adebayo Shittu’s appointment as Pro-Chancellor, while not the executive role he had initially envisioned, has evolved into an opportunity for personal and professional growth. His commitment to the university’s success, coupled with his positive experience in Ebonyi State, has transformed this unexpected assignment into a fulfilling endeavor. Shittu’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, unforeseen opportunities can lead to unexpected rewards and a deeper understanding of the world around us. His dedication to service, coupled with his open-mindedness and willingness to embrace new challenges, positions him well to make a significant contribution to the Dave Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences and the broader Nigerian educational landscape.
