The Federal Government has been urged to provide support and subsidies to private universities, particularly those training essential professionals such as pharmacists and medical doctors for Nigeria’s healthcare and other vital sectors.
Renowned pharmacist and former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Sam Ohuabunwa, made this appeal on Friday at Gregory University, Uturu (GUU), during his reception as the pioneer Chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees (BoT).
Ohuabunwa noted that while the government is making efforts, they are insufficient to meet the expected manpower growth and quality.
“It is expensive to train pharmacists, especially to ensure they gain practical knowledge, clerkship, preceptorship, and the necessary experience. Government needs to do more to support institutions training such manpower—whether private or public—with incentives,” he said.
He questioned the lack of support for private universities, stressing that they complement the government’s role in developing the nation’s workforce.
“Private universities are helping the government perform its responsibilities. They should receive support and subventions, particularly those training critical manpower like pharmacists and medical doctors,” Ohuabunwa added.
He further emphasised that focusing on healthcare and education is crucial for sustainable economic growth:
“If the government has a holistic understanding of how to grow the economy, then special attention must be given to healthcare and education because these are areas that deserve consistent investment.”
Addressing the university community after touring the Faculty of Pharmacy building named in his honour, Ohuabunwa commended the founder and proprietor, Greg Ibe, for his contributions to education, while cautioning that running a university is a serious commitment.
“You have done what many cannot do. State governments struggle to run universities effectively, and even the Federal Government has challenges funding the ones already established,” he said.
On behalf of the university’s founder, chancellor, pro-chancellor, management staff, and students, Vice Chancellor Celine Njoku requested Ohuabunwa’s assistance in registering relevant lecturers with the Pharmaceutical Council, a request he agreed to support.
