This figure encompasses universities owned by the federal and state governments, as well as those established by private individuals and corporations.
During a ceremony held in Abuja, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, the Executive Secretary of NUC, presented provisional licenses to several newly established private universities. He emphasized that while there is a significant demand for tertiary education, the current number of institutions remains insufficient.
Rasheed urged the proprietors of the newly established universities to prioritize the pursuit of a higher and nobler goal rather than focusing solely on monetary gains. It is important, he emphasized, to ensure that the motive behind creating these universities aligns with the broader objective of providing quality education.
”In establishing universities, you don’t expect to get financial rewards. If your main motive is to make money, then you are in the wrong place. You are here to pay back to humanity.
”The establishment of private universities is in dire need of passion from people so that passion should drive you,” he added.
While charging the proprietors of quality assurance in the universities, the NUC boss assured them of the commission’s support and cooperation to grow the university system.
In line with the government's objective of increasing access to university education, David Adejo, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, highlighted the government's commitment to public-private partnerships in the education sector which led to the establishment of new universities.
Adejo acknowledged the existing gap between the demand and supply of university education, with the gross total enrollment ratio currently standing at 12 percent. He further emphasized that the government is open to proposals from credible groups seeking to address this gap through the enrollment of students.
Acknowledging the significance of quality assurance and recognizing the need to bridge the gap in university education, the NUC and the Federal Government expressed their support for initiatives aimed at expanding access to higher education in Nigeria.
