The National Universities Commission (NUC) has revealed that preparations are underway to introduce two additional universities in Nigeria, expanding the nation’s total count of institutions to 272.

Chris Maiyaki, the acting Executive Secretary of the commission, disclosed this development during an engagement with journalists in Abuja on Thursday. Maiyaki emphasized that the NUC remains committed to approving new universities to address the ongoing admissions gap in the country’s higher education sector.

With approximately two million candidates vying for admission annually, the available admission slots range between 500,000 and 700,000, according to Maiyaki. This announcement comes amidst the ongoing debate among stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, regarding the proliferation of universities in Nigeria against the backdrop of insufficient funding for existing institutions.

Maiyaki defended the commission’s decision, stating, “We have no choice but to, as a matter of deliberate policy, undertake the massification of universities.” He underscored the critical role of education investment in distinguishing developed nations from others.

Highlighting the challenges faced by families striving to secure university education for their children, Maiyaki emphasized the necessity of continued university approvals. The commission has finalized the approval process for two new universities, bringing the total count to 272, with an official announcement scheduled for next week.

Maiyaki reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to expanding university access to meet educational demands and ensure the provision of quality education. He cited examples from countries like Brazil and Indonesia, which boast over 1,000 universities despite having smaller populations than Nigeria.

Furthermore, Maiyaki revealed ongoing efforts to enhance the university system through transnational education initiatives, including collaborations with foreign universities to operate within Nigeria. Additionally, the commission is processing applications for the establishment of distance learning centers, with a focus on maintaining educational standards.

However, Maiyaki clarified that this does not signify a resurgence of the era of establishing distance learning centers.