Abakaliki, Ebonyi State – The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially approved the establishment of the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology, Oferekpe. This makes it the 66th state university in Nigeria and the 278th university in the Nigerian University System.
The announcement was made on Thursday, January 23, 2025, when NUC’s Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, presented a letter of recognition to Governor Francis Nwifuru. During the ceremony, Ribadu noted that copies of the recognition letter would be sent to key agencies such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Conditions for Academic Activities
While expressing support for the new university, Ribadu clarified that the recognition letter does not permit the immediate commencement of academic activities. He stated that the institution must first undergo a resource verification process by the NUC.
“The Commission will visit when the university is ready. It will inspect infrastructure, classrooms, the library, and staffing. Only after this verification will the Commission give the go-ahead for academic activities to commence,” Ribadu said.
Governor Nwifuru’s Remarks
Governor Francis Nwifuru explained that the university was established to expand access to higher education and meet the technological manpower needs of Ebonyi State and Nigeria. The institution, originally proclaimed in 2021, aims to play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and technological advancement.
The governor highlighted the progress made in preparing the university’s facilities, including strategic infrastructure at its campus in Oferekpe, Agbaja, Izzi Local Government Area.
“Critical funds have been invested in constructing essential buildings such as the Senate Building, Staff Quarters, Student Hostels, Faculty Buildings, and the University Library. These structures are at various stages of completion,” Nwifuru said.
NUC’s Ongoing Fight Against Illegal Universities
In a related development, the NUC Acting Secretary, Chris Maiyaki, recently released an updated list of 37 illegal universities operating in Nigeria. He emphasized the Commission’s commitment to clamping down on these institutions, with the support of the Department of State Services (DSS).
A Step Forward for Education in Nigeria
The approval of the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology marks a significant milestone in the state’s educational development. With its focus on ICT and technological advancement, the university is poised to contribute to Nigeria’s progress in innovation and technology, further expanding opportunities for aspiring students in the region.