In a significant development, the Federal Government, during an extraordinary meeting of the Federal Executive Council, chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, announced the approval of the establishment of 37 new private universities across Nigeria. This decision, revealed by Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, in Abuja, signifies a continued effort to enhance educational opportunities in the country.
With this recent approval, the total number of universities sanctioned for establishment under the Buhari-led government reaches an impressive count of 72. These include 14 Federal Universities, 21 State Universities, and now 37 Private Universities, spanning from 2015 to the present day.
While Minister Adamu refrained from disclosing the specific names of the newly-approved institutions, he did mention that among them was an online university, unique in its operation and led by a female Chancellor from Bauchi State.
Addressing concerns regarding the state of public universities across the nation, Adamu defended the government’s decision, asserting that the growing population of Nigerian youths necessitates the establishment of more universities. Emphasizing that these are private institutions, he emphasized the need for increased access to higher education.
In addition to the university approvals, the council also gave the green light for the universal implementation of the Employee Compensation Act 2010. This act aims to ensure comprehensive provisions for compensating employees who suffer from occupational diseases or sustain injuries during the course of their work.
This move by the Federal Government demonstrates a commitment to expand educational opportunities and safeguard the well-being of workers in the country. With the advent of these new private universities, the landscape of higher education in Nigeria is set to broaden, offering students more choices and contributing to the nation’s development.
Source here.
