NUC lifts ban on foreign universities in Nigeria

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has lifted the ban on the operation of foreign universities in Nigeria, a move aimed at attracting foreign investment and strengthening the country’s higher education system.

The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, announced the decision at the 10th convocation ceremony of Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, held over the weekend. He said the policy shift is part of broader reforms to open up Nigeria’s university space and enhance global competitiveness.

According to Ribadu, allowing foreign universities to operate in the country will support efforts to reposition the higher education sector and improve the quality and relevance of graduates.

“The decision was taken to allow foreign direct investment in the education sector and to strengthen and make the Nigerian university system more globally competitive,” he said.

Ribadu, who was represented at the event by Offor Chukwuemeka, disclosed that collaborations between Nigerian and foreign universities will be implemented through six approved models: franchise, branch campus, twinning or articulation, open and distance learning, acquisition, and teaching institutions.

He also revealed that the commission has introduced a code of governance for private universities to ensure proper regulation and uniform standards across the sector.

The NUC boss further explained that the commission has reviewed university curricula, replacing the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards with the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards.

Under the new framework, he said, 70 per cent of course content will be determined by the NUC, while universities will provide 30 per cent to reflect their areas of specialisation.

Ribadu emphasised the need to equip students with 21st-century employability skills and commended Gregory University for its role in educational development.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, praised the founder of the university, Professor Gregory Ibe, for his vision.

Represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, the governor reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to advancing education in the state.