How Indigene Discrimination Is Undermining Nigeria’s Federal Universities

A senior academic has criticised the persistent indigene and non-indigene bias in Nigeria’s federal universities, warning that the practice undermines merit, weakens institutional quality, and threatens national unity.

Speaking during an inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin, Professor Gbade Ojo described the discrimination embedded in admissions, employment, promotions, scholarships, and leadership appointments as a distortion of the original mandate of federal institutions. He argued that universities funded by the federation should operate on universal and merit-based principles rather than local or ethnic preferences.

According to the professor, the continued application of indigene status has allowed sectional interests to dominate federal universities, eroding fairness and discouraging excellence. He noted that many Nigerians face systemic disadvantages simply because they live, work, or study outside their states of origin, despite contributing to the social and economic life of those communities.

He further highlighted the challenges faced by graduates posted outside their home states under the National Youth Service Corps scheme, many of whom struggle to secure employment afterward due to indigene restrictions. The practice, he said, fuels exclusion and weakens citizens’ sense of belonging to the nation.

Professor Ojo called for a redefinition of citizenship that recognises residency and contribution rather than ancestry. He proposed that Nigerians who have lived in a state for a significant period should enjoy equal rights and opportunities, regardless of origin, stressing that reform is essential for equity, national cohesion, and the long-term health of Nigeria’s education system.