NUC announces 14-step procedure for establishing private universities in Nigeria 

The announcement was made by Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, FCVSN, the Executive Secretary of the NUC.

According to the directive, individuals or organizations seeking to establish private universities must follow a rigorous process that includes multiple assessments, approvals, and security screenings.

The federal government announced a one-year moratorium on the establishment of new private universities in Nigeria.

The decision, made by the Honorable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, aims to enhance the quality and sustainability of private universities across the country.

The one-year moratorium, which could be extended if necessary, is expected to provide the government with sufficient time to implement critical reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s higher education system

Dr. Alausa explained that while Nigeria has 129 federal and state universities and 149 private universities, private institutions account for less than 10% of overall university admissions

“Nigeria currently has 129 federal and state universities and 149 private universities. Despite private institutions comprising over 50% of the total universities, they account for less than 10% of overall university admissions,” he said. 

This imbalance, he noted, necessitates stricter regulation to ensure private universities maintain high academic standards and contribute meaningfully to national development.

To address these concerns, the Minister emphasized that private universities must build adequate capacity before seeking operational approval.

He stated that new regulations would be introduced to ensure that only financially and academically capable institutions are granted licenses.