Raymond Haruna, a PhD student in the Department of Sociology at the University of Jos, writes via [email protected]
This article examines the tenure of the University of Jos Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, which began in December 2021 and ends in November 2026, focusing on his leadership, achievements, controversies, and the public perception of his administration.
The immediate trigger was the June 2026 controversy surrounding an “Academic Leadership Excellence Award” presented to him by the National Association of Plateau State Students, University of Jos chapter, which generated mixed reactions on social media. Some of those averse to the award adduced that the VC had not built infrastructure, that there was an epileptic power supply in the university, and for some, the VC was not an indigene but was occupying a position that should have been given to a Plateau native based on indigeneity.
The debate was reinforced when ASUU National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, publicly commended Ishaya for improving staff welfare through prompt payment of allowances for both teaching and non-teaching staff.
But it is quite unusual to find union leaders applaud vice-chancellors, especially as they consider them part of the establishment. So, it makes it all the more interesting to undertake this investigation.
