The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved 33 new universities across Nigeria in 2025, bringing the total number of tertiary institutions in the country to 309. The approval covers federal, state and private universities established to expand access to higher education nationwide.
According to data obtained from the NUC website, 20 of the newly approved institutions are private universities. These private universities were granted operating licences last year as part of efforts to encourage private sector participation in the education sector.
The Federal Government established seven new universities among the approved institutions. State governments accounted for the remaining six universities.
The newly established federal universities are located in Rivers, Kaduna, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Oyo and Zamfara states. The institutions are expected to commence academic activities in line with NUC guidelines and regulatory standards.
At the state level, Niger, Benue, Cross River and Imo states each established one new university. Ebonyi State established two new universities, contributing the highest number among the states.
The approval of the new universities reflects ongoing efforts by federal and state authorities to address the growing demand for university education in Nigeria. With thousands of candidates seeking admission annually, existing institutions have faced mounting pressure to accommodate qualified applicants.
Education stakeholders have consistently raised concerns about limited admission spaces in public universities. The expansion of the university system is aimed at reducing this pressure and providing more opportunities for students to access higher education.
Nigeria’s university system has experienced steady growth over the past decade. The addition of 33 new institutions represents one of the significant single-year increases in recent times.
Private universities continue to play a major role in the expansion of tertiary education. The 20 newly licensed private institutions highlight the increasing involvement of private investors and educational foundations in the sector.
The NUC, as the regulatory body for university education in Nigeria, is responsible for granting licences and ensuring compliance with academic standards. Institutions must meet specific requirements related to infrastructure, staffing, curriculum and funding before receiving approval to operate.
The establishment of new federal universities is also part of broader government efforts to improve access to education across different regions. By situating institutions in various states, authorities aim to promote regional balance and reduce the need for students to travel long distances to pursue university studies.
State governments have similarly intensified efforts to strengthen their educational infrastructure. The creation of new state-owned universities is intended to address local educational needs and contribute to human capital development.
The increase in the total number of universities to 309 underscores the rapid expansion of Nigeria’s higher education landscape. The figure includes federal, state and private universities currently recognised by the NUC.
While the expansion is expected to ease admission challenges, education experts have emphasized the importance of maintaining quality standards. They note that infrastructure development, qualified academic staff and sustainable funding will be critical to the success of the new institutions.
The NUC is expected to continue monitoring the universities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Institutions that fail to meet prescribed standards risk sanctions or withdrawal of operating licences.
The approval of the 33 new universities marks a significant development in Nigeria’s education sector in 2025. Authorities say the move is aimed at broadening access, strengthening capacity and supporting national development through improved higher education opportunities.
