Daud Olatunji
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has taken a significant step in advancing higher education in Nigeria by upgrading the Niger State College of Education to the prestigious Niger State University of Education.
The announcement came from the Acting Executive Secretary of NUC, Chris Maiyaki, during a press conference held in Abuja today.
This transformation elevates the institution to the status of the 63rd state-owned university and marks the 270th addition to the Nigerian university system.
In his address, Mr. Maiyaki praised the visionary leadership of Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, stating, “Universities play a pivotal role in national development, and we commend Governor Bago for his creative leadership and commitment to the betterment of his state.”
The NUC’s decision to upgrade the college follows a long-standing law passed in 2013, which had been dormant until Governor Bago’s administration rekindled the matter in August.
The institution had previously received recognition as a duly established university in the Nigerian University System back in 2015.
In a letter dated August 20, 2023, the Niger State Government submitted a comprehensive strategic document, including gazetted university laws, an academic brief, and a physical master plan, to the NUC for the recognition of the university.
Mr. Maiyaki stated, “With effect from Thursday, September 28, the recognition of Niger State University of Education has been revalidated as the 63rd state-owned university and 270th university in the Nigerian university system.”
The NUC has also pledged its full support to the newly upgraded institution and encouraged Governor Bago and the Niger State Government to seek professional and technical advice from the commission for the establishment, sustainable funding, and operational roles of the university.
Furthermore, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will be promptly notified of the university’s establishment.
This development marks a significant stride in the advancement of education in Niger State, opening new doors for students and furthering the state’s contributions to higher learning in Nigeria.
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