FG Imposes Six-Year Ban on New Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education
The Federal Government has announced a comprehensive six-year freeze on the establishment of new tertiary institutions across Nigeria. This significant decision was taken during the Federal Executive Council meeting, which was presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
Focus on Quality and Sustainability
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the move is strategically aimed at strengthening educational quality and improving sustainability, particularly among private institutions. He explained that Nigeria already possesses a large number of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, but many are grappling with severe financial challenges.
Alausa cited alarming figures from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), revealing that over 2.3 million candidates applied for admission in the previous year. However, fewer than 228,000 successfully gained admission into public universities. This substantial gap underscores that access to higher education remains a critical issue, despite the increasing number of institutions nationwide.
Related Developments and Initiatives
In a related development, the Federal Executive Council restored the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education (NMEC) to its full status as an independent commission. The minister disclosed that approximately 56 million Nigerians are still classified as illiterate, highlighting a pressing need for educational outreach.
NMEC plans to roll out aggressive literacy campaigns, especially targeting rural communities. These initiatives will utilize a multi-faceted approach, including radio broadcasts, television programs, advocacy drives, and community learning centers to enhance literacy rates across the country.
Additionally, the council approved amendments to the National Postgraduate Medical College Act. These changes will recognize medical fellowships as equivalent to a PhD for academic progression, thereby streamlining career advancement for medical professionals. Furthermore, insurance coverage was approved for 180 federal unity schools nationwide, ensuring better protection for students and staff.
Context and Implications
This announcement follows closely on the heels of the National Universities Commission approving 33 new universities earlier in 2025, which brought the total number of universities in Nigeria to 309. The new six-year ban is expected to provide a period of consolidation, allowing existing institutions to address financial viability and improve educational standards without the pressure of new competitors.
The Federal Government's decision reflects a broader strategy to prioritize quality over quantity in Nigeria's tertiary education sector, aiming to create a more sustainable and effective system for future generations.
