President Bola Tinubu has appealed to education unions across the country to collaborate with the Federal Government in developing a sustainable and realistic funding model for Nigeria’s higher education sector—one that reflects local conditions while remaining aligned with global standards.

Tinubu made the call on Monday during the 77th Foundation Day and 2025 Convocation ceremonies of the University of Ibadan (UI). He was represented at the event by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu.

The president acknowledged the persistent advocacy of university-based unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), in pushing for increased investment in education. He emphasised that although the challenges facing the sector are significant, they can be overcome through collective commitment and cooperation.

“Since the inception of my administration, we have taken deliberate steps to minimise crises stemming from non-implementation of agreements between the government and various university unions,” Tinubu said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s priority on delivering quality education capable of empowering young Nigerians to navigate and shape the future. Tinubu also commended ASUU and other staff unions for the understanding they have shown so far, stressing that genuine partnership remains key to resolving the deep-rooted issues affecting universities.

The president noted, however, that while education remains a critical sector, it would be unrealistic to dedicate all national resources to it alone. He explained that his administration is constantly exploring innovative and sustainable ways to increase education funding without jeopardising the country’s broader economic stability.

Tinubu reiterated his commitment to fostering lasting reforms in tertiary education, calling on stakeholders to remain engaged as the government works to reposition the sector for global competitiveness.