Abuja, Nigeria – March 5, 2025 – In a bold step to expand access to higher education, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of 11 new private universities, offering fresh opportunities for thousands of Nigerian students struggling with limited admission spaces in existing institutions.
With the increasing demand for quality tertiary education and the yearly admission crisis in public universities, this development brings a ray of hope to students and parents across the country.
A Lifeline for Nigeria’s Overburdened Education System
Nigeria’s university system has long been overwhelmed, with millions of qualified candidates unable to secure admission due to limited spaces in public institutions. The approval of these new universities is expected to reduce pressure on existing institutions and create more opportunities for academic excellence.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the move aligns with Tinubu’s vision to expand educational opportunities and infrastructure nationwide.
Full List of the 11 Newly Approved Universities
- New City University, Ayetoro, Ogun State
- University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State
- Eranova University, Mabushi, Abuja
- Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun State
- Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Agba, Kwara State
- Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
- Lens University, Ilemona, Kwara State
- Monarch University, Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State
- Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin City, Edo State
- Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos
- Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State
A New Dawn for Nigerian Education?
With this approval, Nigeria now has 159 private universities, up from 148, a move that signals a growing recognition of private-sector involvement in education. Experts believe these universities will not only increase admission chances for students but also improve academic standards and research output.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the decision, calling it a much-needed intervention in a sector struggling with funding, overcrowded classrooms, and frequent disruptions due to strikes in public universities.
A lecturer at a federal university, who spoke anonymously, stated:
“Every year, we turn away thousands of bright students because there just aren’t enough spaces. This expansion will give more young Nigerians a chance to pursue their dreams.”
What Happens Next?
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has been tasked with ensuring that these new institutions meet academic and infrastructural standards before they can begin full operations. The universities will also be closely monitored to guarantee quality education and adherence to national policies.
For students still struggling to secure admission, these new universities offer a fresh glimmer of hope. However, education experts emphasize that affordability and quality assurance must remain top priorities.
A Step in the Right Direction
With millions of Nigerian youths eager to further their education, this development marks a step in the right direction. As these universities begin operations, all eyes will be on their ability to deliver quality education, create employment opportunities, and contribute to Nigeria’s academic and economic growth.
The question remains: Will these universities truly bridge the education gap, or will they become another avenue for expensive tuition fees beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians? Only time will tell.