Number nigerian universities may double nuc considers 200 new private university applications

According to a report by The Punch, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has received over 200 applications from private institutions seeking to establish new universities in Nigeria. This development may lead to a significant increase in the number of Nigerian universities, potentially doubling the current number.

As of 2022, there are 43 federal universities, 79 private universities, and 173 state universities in Nigeria, bringing the total number of universities to 295. If the NUC approves all the pending applications, the number of universities in Nigeria could potentially double to around 590.

The NUC has set up a committee to review the applications and ensure that the new universities meet the required standards and criteria. The commission has also introduced new guidelines to ensure that the new universities are well-equipped to provide quality education to students.

The increase in the number of universities is expected to improve access to higher education in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of institutions. However, it also raises concerns about the quality of education and the ability of the new universities to provide adequate infrastructure and resources for students.

The NUC has emphasized the need for the new universities to meet the required standards and criteria, including having a minimum of 10 hectares of land, a minimum of 500 students, and a minimum of 10 academic programs. The commission has also emphasized the importance of ensuring that the new universities have adequate infrastructure, including libraries, laboratories, and recreational facilities.

Overall, the potential increase in the number of Nigerian universities is a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for the country's education sector.