The Katsina State Government has taken decisive action against several private tertiary institutions operating without proper accreditation or licenses. According to Dr. Muhammad Isah Kankara, Commissioner for Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, the decision to close these institutions was made after investigations revealed that many had been running illegally and failing to meet national standards.

During the 2026 pre-budget defence session in Katsina, Kankara explained that the government’s primary concern is protecting students from substandard education and ensuring quality across all tertiary institutions in the state. He stated that the ministry’s findings showed several private tertiary institutions had been operating without approval from relevant regulatory bodies, prompting the government to take action.

The closure of these institutions is expected to have a significant impact on the ministry’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the coming year. Kankara acknowledged that the expected income from tertiary education will drop considerably in 2026, as most of the affected institutions had contributed to the ministry’s revenue. Despite this, the government remains committed to its decision, prioritizing the quality of education and the well-being of students.

The move to close unaccredited institutions is part of a broader effort to regulate the education sector in Katsina State. By taking a firm stance against substandard education, the government aims to promote excellence and accountability across all tertiary institutions. This development is likely to have far-reaching implications for the state’s education system, as it seeks to balance the need for accessible education with the importance of maintaining high standards.

As the education sector in Katsina State undergoes this significant transformation, it remains to be seen how the government will address the potential challenges that arise from the closure of these institutions. Nevertheless, the government’s commitment to protecting students and promoting quality education is a step towards ensuring that tertiary institutions in the state meet the required national standards.