NUC Lifts Ban on Foreign Universities in Nigeria, Opens Door to Global Education Investment

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially lifted the embargo on the establishment and operation of foreign universities in Nigeria, a move expected to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen the country’s higher education sector.

The announcement was made by the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, during the 10th Convocation Ceremony of Gregory University, Uturu (GUU), in Abia State.

According to Professor Ribadu, the policy shift is designed to improve global competitiveness, expand international academic partnerships, and enhance the quality of university education in Nigeria.

He explained that the decision aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda to modernize the education sector and position Nigerian universities for international relevance.

The NUC disclosed that foreign university partnerships will operate under six approved models: franchise arrangements, branch campuses, twinning and articulation programmes, open and distance learning platforms, acquisitions, and teaching institutions.

As part of ongoing reforms, the Commission has also introduced a unified code of corporate governance for private universities to ensure accountability, transparency, and operational consistency across the sector.

In addition, the NUC has completed a major overhaul of university curricula, transitioning from the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) to the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS).

Under the revised framework, the Commission now provides 70 percent of mandatory core courses required for graduation, while universities are allowed to develop the remaining 30 percent to reflect institutional strengths, innovation priorities, and labour market relevance.

The curriculum reforms emphasize digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and 21st-century employability skills aimed at improving graduate outcomes and workforce readiness.

Commending Gregory University for its academic growth, the NUC praised the institution’s commitment to educational innovation and quality assurance.

Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti applauded the university’s founder, Professor Gregory Ibe, for his foresight and sustained investment in higher education. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to educational development and human capital growth in the state.

The Vice-Chancellor of Gregory University, Professor Cele Njoku, revealed that the institution has expanded from three colleges at inception to twelve colleges with over 53 academic departments within 13 years.

She added that all eight academic programmes submitted to the NUC in 2024 received full accreditation. The university has also introduced new courses, including Artificial Intelligence, data-driven disciplines, and major foreign languages, in response to global demand.

Professor Njoku congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to uphold excellence and integrity as ambassadors of the institution.

Representing the founder, the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Augustine Uwakwe, said the university was established to make quality university education accessible while maintaining high academic standards. He reaffirmed continued support for institutional development and student success.

Delivering the valedictory address, the overall best graduating student, Master Onyechere Chinedum Yadirichukwu, who graduated with a 4.91 CGPA, called on young Nigerians to actively contribute to national development.

The 21-year-old accounting graduate dedicated his achievement to his parents, citing discipline, mentorship, and strong educational foundations as pillars of his success.

The ceremony also featured the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on notable Nigerians, including a former state governor, a prominent traditional ruler, and a leading industrialist, in recognition of their contributions to governance, leadership, and economic development.