Bisola David
The National Universities Commission has reported that 19 federal, state, and private institutions received approval for operation between January and December 2022.
According to The Punch, a breakdown of the 19 accredited universities revealed that only one federal institution, the King David Umahi University of Medical Sciences in Uburu, Ebonyi State, was recognized in 2022.
Additional research found that six state institutions were authorized in 2022 which include the Emmanuel Alayande University of Education in Oyo State, the Enugu State University of Medicine and Applied Sciences, the Lagos University of Education, Ijanikin, the Lagos University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu, the Shehu Shagari University of Education in Sokoto, and the Lagos University of Science and Technology.
The remaining 12 accredited universities were all privately owned, according to further investigation.
According to the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abubakar Adamu, private university promoters should view their interest in investing in the sector as a contribution to the development of the university sector rather than as a means of making money.
He made this statement most recently when representatives of the projected Amadeaus University, which would be situated in Amizi, Abia State, came before the commission to request a second verification visit.
This information was included in the commission’s bulletin.
The Executive Secretary added that the Commission will keep encouraging well-meaning Nigerians to join up and contribute to the growth of private colleges in the nation, according to part of the bulletin.
He claimed that although Nigeria now has 111 private universities scattered across the country’s regions, the country still required more since millions of young people wanted to pursue higher education but were unable to do so due to a lack of access.
The commission always appreciates and supports those who want to give back to society.
