The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially recognized and upgraded Niger State University of Education, Minna, to a University of Education. The Acting Executive Secretary of NUC, Chris Maiyaki, made this announcement during a visit by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Maiyaki explained that the institution originally received conditional recognition as a University of Education in 2013, but the conditions were not met by the previous administrations in Niger State. It was only under the current administration of Governor Bago that these conditions were fulfilled, leading to the revalidation and recognition of the university.
This approval positions Niger State University of Education as the 63rd state-owned university in Nigeria. Maiyaki stressed the significance of the activation of NUC’s recognition, stating, “the process was never consummated by the successive Niger state administrations, until this government requested the activation of the NUC earlier recognition of Niger State University of Education, Minna.”
The acting NUC boss highlighted that the approval of the new university was based on the submission of essential documents, including the Gazette University’s law, academic brief, and master plan. The recognition of the university has been effective since September 28th, 2023. Additionally, relevant government agencies such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will be informed of the university’s new status.
While congratulating Maiyaki on his appointment, Governor Bago expressed his commitment to the development of the education sector in Niger State. He shared that the aim of his visit was to revive the ambition of converting Niger State College of Education, Minna, into the University of Education. Furthermore, he appealed to the acting NUC Executive Secretary to expedite the necessary approvals for the IBB University Lapai to offer Medicine and for the Federal College of Education in Kontogora to become a university of education.
Regarding the funding of the new university, Governor Bago assured that the recently enacted education trust fund law in Niger State would provide the necessary financial support. He explained that every government contract and transaction within the state would allocate one percent for the education fund.
The recognition and upgrade of Niger State University of Education, Minna, to a university is a significant development for the educational landscape in Nigeria. With the necessary support and resources, the institution is poised to contribute to the growth and advancement of education in the country.
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