In a significant move to enhance access to tertiary education, the Federal Government of Nigeria has granted provisional licenses to 11 newly established private universities. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for higher education and to foster the development of specialised skills among the youth.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the following institutions:
- New City University, Aiyetoro, Ogun State
- Lens University, Ilemona, Kwara State
- Kevin Ezeh University, Mgbowo, Enugu State
- Monarch University, Iyesi Ota, Ogun State
- Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin, Edo State
- Isaac Balami University of Aeronautic and Management, Lagos State
- Eranova University, Kuje, Federal Capital Territory
- Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
- University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State
- Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun State
- Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University, Ganmo, Kwara State
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that this development is part of the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative. The initiative seeks to revitalize the nation’s educational system by increasing access to tertiary education and ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant skills for the modern economy.
Dr. Alausa highlighted the need for universities to focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences (STEMM) disciplines. He noted that while there is an abundance of social science graduates, the country requires more professionals in technical fields to drive industrial growth and innovation.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has stipulated that the licenses granted are provisional and valid for three years. During this period, the universities must meet specific quality benchmarks and undergo regular evaluations to ensure compliance with academic and infrastructural standards.
Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, stated that the commission would conduct mandatory resource verification exercises for all academic programs offered by the new institutions. This process is designed to assess the readiness of the universities in terms of facilities, faculty, and curriculum.
Since the liberalisation of university education in 1999, Nigeria has witnessed a significant increase in the number of private universities. From just 23 private institutions in 1999, the country now boasts 159, accounting for over half of the total number of universities nationwide. This growth reflects the active participation of the private sector in expanding educational opportunities.
During the licensing ceremony, proprietors of the newly approved universities were encouraged to collaborate with existing institutions and establish international partnerships. Such collaborations are expected to enhance research capabilities, promote innovation, and improve the overall quality of education.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing the University of Fortune, advocated for the removal of barriers that hinder Nigerian universities from engaging with global institutions. Similarly, Tony Iredia of Tonnie Iredia University of Communication urged the government to ensure that the provisional licensing period is not unnecessarily prolonged, allowing universities to fully commence operations in a timely manner.
