Nigerian Government Suspends Approval of New Private Universities: What It Means for Education

The Nigerian government, through the National Universities Commission (NUC), has announced a one-year suspension on approving new private universities. This decision, effective February 10, 2025, aims to review and strengthen regulatory guidelines to ensure better standards in the private university sector.

While this move is meant to improve education quality, it raises concerns about accessibility, affordability, and the future of private tertiary institutions in Nigeria.


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Why the Suspension?

The NUC’s Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu, explained that the suspension applies to:

✅ New submissions for private university approval.
✅ Inactive applications that have not made significant progress.
✅ Proposals still at the letter of intent stage.

However, applications that are already under review will not be affected. Instead, they will be assessed and recommended for final approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

The commission believes this break will restructure and strengthen regulations, ensuring that new universities meet modern educational demands.


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Increased Costs for Private University Applications

In addition to the suspension, the NUC has significantly raised fees for new private university applications:

💰 Application Fee – Increased from ₦1 million to ₦5 million.
💰 Processing Fee – Raised from ₦5 million to ₦25 million.

For applicants who already purchased forms, they must pay the new processing fee within 30 working days or risk losing their application.


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The Rapid Growth of Private Universities in Nigeria

Since the first private universities—Babcock University, Igbinedion University, and Madonna University—were established in 1999, the sector has grown rapidly.

By 2024, Nigeria had 149 private universities, surpassing the total number of federal and state universities combined.

Why the Surge?

✔️ Frequent ASUU Strikes – Disruptions in public universities push students toward private institutions.
✔️ Rising Demand for Higher Education – Public universities have limited admission slots.
✔️ Better Facilities & Stability – Private universities offer uninterrupted academic calendars and modern learning environments.


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Impact on Students & Investors

📌 For Students:

The suspension won’t affect current private universities, but it could limit new institutions in the future.

Tuition fees may rise due to stricter regulations and increased operational costs.


📌 For Investors & University Founders:

Higher financial barriers due to increased application and processing fees.

Those who haven’t moved beyond the letter of intent stage must wait until 2026 to proceed.



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Final Thoughts

The government’s suspension of private university approvals aims to improve education quality and regulation. However, it also raises concerns about accessibility, affordability, and investment in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

Will this policy enhance or hinder private university development in Nigeria?
Drop your thoughts in the comments