ASUU Raises Alarm Over 'Japa Syndrome' Contributing to Critical Staff Shortages in Nigerian Universities

 The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) attributes the critical shortage of staff in Nigerian universities to the 'Japa syndrome,' with

numerous lecturers seeking better opportunities abroad. In an interview, ASUU highlights a surge in retirements across Nigerian universities.

 For instance, Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto reports around 100 departed lecturers, while Federal University in Gusau, Zamfara, needs approximately 1,000 lecturers to fill vacancies

 Similar situations are noted in institutions like the Federal University of Agriculture in Abeokuta, the University of Lagos, the University of Uyo, and the University of Ilorin.

ASUU emphasizes the impact of the Federal Government's employment embargo, leading to a chronic staff shortage and overburdened teaching staff. 

The union expresses concern about bureaucratic hurdles in the recruitment process, involving clearance from multiple government agencies. Additionally, the introduction of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) is criticized, with workers finding it restrictive and counterproductive, exacerbating the challenge of understaffing in universities. 

The union underscores the need for addressing these issues to mitigate the brain drain and sustain the Nigerian university system.