The National Universities Commission has ordered the immediate termination of all Higher National Diploma to Bachelor of Science conversion and top-up programmes across Nigerian universities. This directive has prompted several institutions to notify students and the public about the suspension of these programmes.
Kwara State University Ends Top-Up Admissions
Kwara State University, Malete, officially announced the cessation of its top-up degree admissions starting from the 2025/2026 academic session. In a public statement, the university management said the decision followed regulations issued by the NUC, which supervises university education in the country.
“This is to inform the public that Kwara State University, Malete, will discontinue its Top Up/HND Conversion programme from the 2025/2026 academic session,” the notice read. The university added that the NUC would later provide guidance on the status of students currently enrolled in the programme. “This discontinuation is in compliance with the regulations of the National Universities Commission, the regulatory body for all universities in Nigeria,” the statement added. KWASU Registrar, Dr. Kikelomo W. Sallee, said the institution remained committed to regulatory compliance and ethical standards.
Al-Hikmah University Suspends Admissions
Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, also announced the immediate suspension of admissions into top-up degree programmes. According to the university management, all future admissions into undergraduate programmes will only be conducted through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. “The University Management hereby notifies the public that all admissions into Top-Up Degree Programmes have been discontinued with immediate effect. This complies with the National Universities Commission directives,” the institution stated.
The university further warned members of the public against dealing with individuals or groups offering admission outside approved procedures. “Admission into the Undergraduate programmes of the University is strictly through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board,” the statement said.
Policy Shift and Impact
The decision marks a major policy shift for universities that previously operated conversion programmes for HND holders seeking university degrees. Over the years, such programmes became popular among polytechnic graduates aiming to improve career prospects and academic qualifications. The development affects candidates seeking to convert HND certificates into bachelor’s degrees through university-affiliated pathways.
Uncertainty Over Enrolled Students
While universities have stopped new admissions into the programmes, uncertainty remains over students currently undergoing conversion studies. KWASU said the NUC would provide additional directives concerning affected students in due course. No timeline was given for the release of the guidance. The NUC has not yet issued a detailed public statement explaining the reasons behind the latest directive.
The federal government has also introduced fresh measures to tackle examination malpractice in the Senior School Certificate Examination, a key requirement for admission into tertiary institutions across the country. The new steps apply to examinations conducted by the West African Examination Council, the National Examination Council, and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board.
