MRA Hails FG’s Transparency Directive To Tertiary Institutions, Urges Wider Adoption Across MDAs
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
As Nigeria marks another milestone in the journey towards open governance, the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has applauded the Federal Government’s recent directive mandating all federal tertiary institutions to publish their budgets and financial data online.
The organisation says the move signals a meaningful push for transparency in the education sector but wants the initiative scaled up across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The Federal Ministry of Education announced over the weekend that all Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Provosts must make key financial and institutional data publicly available on their websites by May 31, 2025.
This includes detailed budget breakdowns, research grant revenues (domestic and international), and TETFund allocations.
Reacting to the development, MRA’s Programme Officer, Timileyin Adams, described the policy as a “bold and commendable step” that could deter corruption and improve service delivery in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
He however, stressed the need for inclusivity.
“Transparency should not be selective,” Adams said. “Extending this directive to all public institutions will empower citizens, improve trust in government, and ensure better monitoring of public spending.”
MRA pointed to Section 2(3) of the Freedom of Information Act as already mandating such disclosures, and urged oversight bodies like the Budget Office, Accountant-General, and Attorney-General of the Federation to enforce compliance and support user-friendly platforms for public access.
The organisūation reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote openness, while calling for consistent government action that reflects a genuine commitment to accountability in all sectors of public service.
