The Federal University of Technology, Akure, has called on Nigerian Universities to prioritise quality over quantity in producing graduates, warning against turning higher Institutions into "degree mills."

The call was made on Thursday at the University's 15th Registry Annual Lecture, where Professor Hope Eghagha, a Professor of English Literature and Literary Analysis at the University of Lagos, Hope Eghagha, delivered a lecture titled "Quality or Quantity: Rethinking Higher Education Administration in the 21st Century."

Eghagha stated that Universities must focus on producing highly skilled and globally competitive graduates rather than merely increasing enrolment and graduation figures. He explained that balancing educational expansion with academic excellence remains the defining challenge of the era, stressing that in 21st century Nigeria, the true measure of a University's success must shift entirely from producing large numbers of graduates to cultivating highly skilled, globally competitive professionals.

He warned that institutions must not become mere degree mills, insisting that educational standards be fiercely protected and elevated so that every certificate awarded represents genuine expertise, innovation, and character. He added that prioritising strategic funding, rigorous accreditation, and robust capacity building over unchecked enrolment would allow Nigerian higher education to transcend its current growing pains and establish a legacy of uncompromised excellence.

Speaking at the event, the Registrar of FUTA, Charles Adeleye, appealed to public spirited individuals, alumni, and corporate organisations to support efforts to strengthen the University's registry. He noted that keeping the administrative machinery running efficiently and ensuring the continuity of the event had involved huge effort, and called for support that would enable the registry to remain dynamic, innovative, and responsive to the evolving demands of University administration.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Adenike Oladiji, stated that FUTA remained committed to becoming a world class University of Technology through excellence in teaching, research, and service delivery. She added that the Institution would continue to interrogate issues affecting higher education as part of efforts to improve the university system and the country's education sector.