CRITERIA OF BECOMING A NIGERIAN PROFESSOR

 

Becoming a professor in Nigeria is a highly esteemed achievement. It is not only a prestigious title but also a position of great responsibility. Professors are considered to be the topmost experts in their respective fields, and their opinions and research hold great weight in society. However, the journey to becoming a Nigerian professor is not an easy one. It requires dedication, hard work, and meeting certain criteria. In this article, we will discuss the criteria of becoming a Nigerian professor and the steps one needs to take to achieve this prestigious title.

1. Educational Qualifications:

The first and foremost criteria for becoming a Nigerian professor is to have the right educational qualifications. According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), a professor must possess a doctoral degree in their field of expertise. This means that one must have completed a Bachelor's degree, followed by a Master's degree, and finally a doctoral degree. The doctoral degree is the highest level of academic qualification and is a testament to one's expertise and research abilities.

2. Teaching Experience and Academic Publications:

Apart from educational qualifications, a professor must also have relevant teaching experience. In Nigeria, the minimum requirement for teaching experience is 10 years. This means that a candidate must have at least 10 years of experience teaching at the university level. Additionally, a professor must also have a significant number of academic publications to their name. These publications must be in reputable journals and should showcase the candidate's research and contributions to their field.

3. Recognition and Impact in the Academic Community:

A professor must also have a significant impact in the academic community. This can be achieved through recognition and awards for one's research and contributions to the field. A candidate must have a strong reputation among their peers and be recognized as an authority in their field. This can be demonstrated through invitations to speak at conferences, seminars, and workshops, as well as collaborations with other renowned academics.

4. Administrative and Leadership Skills:

A professor is not just a teacher or researcher; they are also leaders in their academic departments. Therefore, it is essential for a candidate to have strong administrative and leadership skills. This includes the ability to manage and lead a team, make strategic decisions, and effectively communicate with colleagues and students. These skills are crucial in maintaining the academic standards of the university and fostering a positive learning environment.

5. Personal Qualities:

Apart from the above criteria, there are certain personal qualities that are essential for becoming a Nigerian professor. These include a passion for teaching and research, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to lifelong learning. A professor must also possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

In conclusion, becoming a Nigerian professor is a rigorous and challenging process that requires a combination of educational qualifications, teaching experience, recognition and impact in the academic community, administrative and leadership skills, and personal qualities. It is a highly competitive field, and only the most dedicated and qualified individuals are able to achieve this prestigious title. Therefore, for those aspiring to become a Nigerian professor, it is crucial to start early, work hard, and continuously strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.