INSTITUTIONALIZING MERITOCRACY IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES: A STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF UYO

This research investigates the challenges and prospects of institutionalizing meritocracy in Nigerian public universities, using the University of Uyo as a case study. The central problem is the persistent tension between merit-based recruitment and promotion, on the one hand, and prebendal practices where appointments are influenced by ethnic, political, and personal connections on the other. Drawing on prebendalism and institutional theory as analytical lenses, the study adopts a mixed-methods design involving surveys of academic and non-academic staff, key informant interviews, and analysis of university recruitment records. The study addresses three research questions concerning the prebendal practices hindering meritocratic recruitment, their effects on staff recruitment and promotion, and the reforms needed to institutionalize meritocracy. Quantitative data from 400 respondents are analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data from 20 key informants and document analysis are analyzed thematically. Findings reveal that prebendal practices are prevalent in recruitment and promotion at the University of Uyo, manifesting through ethnic favouritism, political interference, and patron-client relationships. These practices significantly undermine institutional quality, staff morale, and the credibility of academic credentials. The study recommends the development of transparent merit-based frameworks, robust monitoring mechanisms, and capacity building for ethical governance. The findings will inform policy recommendations for university governing councils, the NUC, and the Federal Ministry of Education. The study addresses the National Research Fund's thematic area of Governance, Politics, Law and Ethics, and aligns with its goals of national relevance, policy impact, innovation, capacity building, and evidence-based research.