FG Imposes 7-Year Ban On Establishment Of New Tertiary Institutions

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a seven-year suspension on the creation of new universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country.

The decision, according to the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, aims to stabilize and strengthen the nation’s existing tertiary institutions, many of which are struggling with inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and insufficient staffing.

Speaking at a meeting with heads of regulatory agencies in Abuja on Monday, Prof. Mamman said the government would no longer approve the establishment of new tertiary institutions until 2032.

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“We have more than enough tertiary institutions already, but what we lack is quality. Our focus now is to improve standards, ensure proper accreditation, and strengthen governance in our existing schools,”
the minister stated.

He noted that Nigeria currently has over 270 universities, 170 polytechnics, and 200 colleges of education, adding that most of them are not adequately equipped to deliver world-class education.

The minister also revealed that the Federal Government will prioritize improving staff welfare, research capacity, and teaching facilities to align with global best practices.

The announcement has generated mixed reactions among education stakeholders. While some experts commended the move, saying it would help consolidate standards, others argued that Nigeria’s growing youth population still requires more access to higher education.