The Federal Government has announced a 7-year ban on establishing new federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
President Tinubu approved the decision after a Federal Executive Council meeting. Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa cited under-utilised institutions, overstretched resources, and falling academic quality as reasons.
With some universities having fewer than 2,000 students but over 1,000 staff, and many institutions seeing very low or zero JAMB applicants, the moratorium aims to improve existing facilities, staffing, and education standards. Despite the freeze, 9 new private universities were approved after review.
This move seeks to enhance Nigerian graduates’ competitiveness worldwide.