Index to Nigerian Newspapers

Over 300 universities in Nigeria are failing to meet the admission needs of thousands of students, with over a million qualified candidates denied access each year due to limited spaces. Despite the establishment of numerous new universities—69 approved by the government between 2023 and 2025—stakeholders argue that this approach exacerbates the problem rather than solving it. Experts recommend focusing on reforming existing institutions and addressing inefficiencies rather than merely increasing quantity. Recently, the Federal Government implemented a seven-year moratorium on establishing new federal universities, a move aimed at consolidating resources and improving the current education system. This pause is viewed as an opportunity to modernize facilities and align academic programs with national priorities, though its success will depend on effective strategic use. Critics emphasize that without reform, this period may just be wasted time in addressing the urgent concern of access to higher education.