The Federal Government has approved 11 new private universities, increasing the total of universities in the country to 295.
The Education Minister Dr. Maruf Alausa issued provisional licenses in Abuja on Wednesday to institutions including City University in Ayetoro, Ogun, and others in Ondo, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Osun, Lagos, Enugu, and Benin City.
Alausa urged the universities to prioritize STEM and technical education. He emphasized producing skilled graduates in fields like healthcare and engineering to meet Nigeria’s urgent workforce and industrial needs.
The new institutions were encouraged to form local and global partnerships. Alausa noted that collaborations can enhance resources, program diversity, and academic credibility, boosting Nigeria’s transnational education appeal.
NUC Executive Secretary Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu highlighted the role of the 159 private universities in expanding access. Each new university is mentored by an established institution, with provisional licenses valid for three years.
JAMB Registrar Prof. Is-haq Oloyede called for integrity in operations. He advised the universities to avoid imposing religious requirements, ensuring fairness and alignment with educational standards.
