The Federal Government has imposed a one-year suspension on the establishment of new private universities in Nigeria, citing concerns over quality and sustainability.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, announced the decision, emphasizing that the suspension is necessary to ensure that only institutions with the financial and academic capacity to deliver quality education are granted licenses.
According to a statement by Boriowo Folashade, Director of Press & Public Relations, the move is aimed at addressing the rapid proliferation of private universities, many of which struggle with inadequate infrastructure and low student enrollment.
Nigeria currently has 129 federal and state universities and 149 private universities. However, despite private institutions accounting for more than half of the total universities in the country, they admit less than 10% of students in higher education. Dr. Alausa described this as a major concern, stressing the need for stricter regulations to ensure private universities meet global standards.
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To strengthen the sector, the Minister directed the National Universities Commission (NUC) to review all pending applications for new private universities. This review will assess their viability and ensure only well-equipped institutions aligned with national development goals receive approval.
Additionally, the government is updating the guidelines for establishing private universities to enhance quality control. Dr. Alausa warned that the suspension could be extended if necessary, stressing that the reforms are essential to creating a stronger, more sustainable higher education system in Nigeria.
