National Universities Commission NUC

Overview

The National Universities Commission (NUC) is Nigeria's apex regulatory body for university education, established to oversee the development and quality assurance of higher education institutions across the country. Operating under the Federal Ministry of Education, the NUC plays a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Nigerian universities, ensuring they meet national and international standards.

Historical and Legal Framework

Founded in 1962 as an advisory agency within Nigeria's Cabinet Office, the NUC transitioned into a statutory body in 1974 through the enactment of the National Universities Commission Act No. 1. This legislation empowered the NUC to advise federal and state governments on all aspects of university education and the general development of universities in Nigeria. The Act has since been codified as Cap. N81 in the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, solidifying the NUC's role as a corporate body with statutory functions and powers.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

The NUC's mission is to ensure the orderly development of a well-coordinated and productive university system that guarantees quality and relevant education for national development and global competitiveness. Its vision is to be a dynamic regulatory agency acting as a catalyst for positive change and innovation in the delivery of quality university education in Nigeria. The NUC's objectives include:

• Advising on the establishment and development of universities.
• Ensuring the maintenance of academic standards and quality assurance.
• Coordinating the activities of universities to avoid duplication of programs.
• Promoting research and development in higher education.
• Facilitating international collaboration and partnerships.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

The NUC operates as an autonomous agency under the Federal Ministry of Education, with a Governing Council responsible for its overall policy direction. The Commission is led by an Executive Secretary, who serves as the chief executive officer and is supported by various departments and units focusing on accreditation, planning, research, and international relations. While the NUC functions independently in its regulatory capacity, it remains accountable to the federal government and aligns its policies with national educational objectives.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

As the primary body for accreditation in Nigeria, the NUC ensures that universities maintain high standards in their academic programs. Accreditation processes involve rigorous evaluations based on criteria such as academic content, staffing, infrastructure, and research output. The NUC's accreditation system aims to:

• Ensure that programs meet national educational standards.
• Promote continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
• Enhance the employability of graduates.
• Foster institutional accountability and transparency.

In recent developments, the NUC has emphasized the importance of achieving at least 80% full accreditation status for academic programs across Nigerian universities, aiming for a stable and crisis-free university system.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

The NUC actively engages in international collaborations to enhance the quality of Nigerian higher education. It is a member of several global and regional organizations, including:

• International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE)
• Association of African Universities (AAU)
• West African Universities Association (WAUA)
• Commonwealth Universities Association (CUA)

These memberships facilitate the exchange of best practices, participation in global accreditation systems, and alignment with international educational standards.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

The NUC's initiatives have significantly influenced the evolution of higher education in Nigeria. Its accreditation processes ensure that universities deliver quality education that meets both national and global standards. Looking ahead, the NUC aims to:

• Expand access to higher education through the establishment of new universities.
• Enhance the quality of education by implementing innovative teaching methods and curricula.
• Strengthen research and development to contribute to national development.
• Improve university governance and management practices.

These efforts are expected to contribute to the development of a knowledge-based economy and elevate Nigeria's position in the global educational landscape.

Summary

The National Universities Commission (NUC) stands as a cornerstone in the development and regulation of higher education in Nigeria. Through its statutory functions, the NUC ensures that universities uphold high standards of academic excellence, contribute to national development, and engage in meaningful international collaborations. Its ongoing reforms and initiatives aim to address emerging challenges and position Nigerian universities for future success in a rapidly evolving global educational environment.

FAQs

1. What is the National Universities Commission (NUC)?

   The NUC is Nigeria's statutory regulatory body responsible for overseeing the development and quality assurance of university education in the country.

2. When was the NUC established?

   The NUC was established in 1962 as an advisory agency and became a statutory body in 1974 through the National Universities Commission Act.

3. What are the NUC's main functions?

   The NUC's functions include advising on the establishment of universities, ensuring academic standards, coordinating university activities, promoting research, and facilitating international collaborations.

4. How does the NUC ensure quality in universities?

   The NUC conducts accreditation processes based on criteria such as academic content, staffing, infrastructure, and research output to ensure universities maintain high standards.

5. Is the NUC involved in international collaborations?

   Yes, the NUC is a member of several global and regional organizations, including INQAAHE, AAU, WAUA, and CUA, to enhance the quality of Nigerian higher education.

Organization Name

National Universities Commission

Acronym

NUC

Year of Establishment

1/01/1962

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Aja Nwachukwu House, Plot 430 Aguiyi-Ironsi Street, Maitama District PMB 237 Garki GPO
Abuja
Federal Capital Territory Nigeria

Phone

+234 (9) 4133 176181

Fax

+234 (9) 4133 250

List of Nigerian universities supervised by the National Universities Commission (NUC):

FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES

• Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
• Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
• Alex Ekwueme University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
• Bayero University, Kano
• Federal University Gashua, Yobe
• Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun
• Federal University of Technology, Akure
• Federal University of Technology, Minna
• Federal University of Technology, Owerri
• Federal University, Birnin Kebbi
• Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State
• Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina
• Federal University, Gusau Zamfara
• Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State
• Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State
• Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State
• Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa
• Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State
• Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State
• Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi
• Michael Okpara University of Agricultural Umudike
• Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola
• National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja
• Nigeria Police Academy Wudil
• Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
• Obafemi Awolowo University,Ile-Ife
• University of Abuja, Gwagwalada
• Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
• University of Benin
• University of Calabar
• University of Ibadan
• University of Ilorin
• University of Jos
• University of Lagos
• University of Maiduguri
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka
• University of Port-Harcourt
• University of Uyo
• Usumanu Danfodiyo University
• Nigerian Maritime University Okerenkoko, Delta State
• Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna
• Nigerian Army University Biu
• Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State
• Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State
• Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State
• Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State
• Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State
• Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun, Osun State
• David Nweze Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, Uburu
• Admiralty University Ibusa, Delta State
• Federal University of Transportation Daura, Katsina
• African Aviation and Aerospace University
• National University of Science and Technology, Abuja
• Federal University of Agriculture Bassam-Biri, Bayelsa
• Federal University of Health Sciences Kwale, Delta State
• Federal University of Health Sciences, Katsina
• Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi
• Federal University of Education, Zaria, Kaduna State
• Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Imo State
• Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano
• Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo
• Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu
• Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta
• Federal University of Education Pankshin, Plateau State
• Federal University of Education Kontagora, Niger State
• University of Maritime Studies, Oron, Akwa Ibom State
• Federal University of Environment and Technology, Tai Town, Ogoniland, Rivers State
• Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State
• Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu Ode
• Federal University of Agriculture and Developmental Studies, Iragbuji, Osun State
• Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State
• Federal University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Item, Abia State

STATE UNIVERSITIES

• Abia State University, Uturu
• Adamawa State University Mubi
• Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba
• Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden
• Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
• Bauchi State University, Gadau
• Benue State University, Makurdi
• Bornu State University, Maiduguri
• Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli
• Delta State University Abraka
• Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
• Edo State University Uzairue
• Ekiti State University
• Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu
• First Technical University Ibadan
• Gombe State Univeristy, Gombe
• Gombe State University of Science and Technology
• Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai
• Ignatius Ajuru University of Education,Rumuolumeni
• Imo State University, Owerri
• Kaduna State University, Kaduna
• Aliko Dangote university of Science & Technology, Wudil
• Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero
• Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University Ogboko, Imo State
• Kwara State University, Ilorin
• Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso
• Lagos State University, Ojo
• Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology Abeokuta
• Nasarawa State University Keffi
• Niger Delta University Yenagoa
• Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye
• Olusegun Agagu University of Sc. & Tech., Okitipupa, Ondo
• Osun State University Osogbo
• Plateau State University Bokkos
• Prince Abubakar Audu University Anyigba
• Rivers State University
• Sokoto State University
• Sule Lamido University, Kafin Hausa, Jigawa
• Taraba State University, Jalingo
• Umar Musa Yar' Adua University Katsina
• University of Africa Toru Orua, Bayelsa State
• University of Cross River State, Calabar
• University of Ilesa, Osun State
• University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City, Ondo State
• University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Umuagwo, Imo State
• Yobe State University, Damaturu
• Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano
• Zamfara State University
• Bayelsa Medical University
• Confluence University of Science and Technology Osara, Kogi
• University of Delta, Agbor
• Delta University of Science and Technology, Ozoro
• Dennis Osadebe University, Asaba
• Bamidele Olumilua University of Science and Technology Ikere, Ekiti State
• Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin
• Lagos State University of Science and Technology Ikorodu
• Shehu Shagari University of Education, Sokoto
• State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, Igbo-Eno, Enugu
• Emanuel Alayande University of Education Oyo
• Kogi State University, Kabba
• AbdulKadir Kure University, Minna Niger State
• Kwara State University of Education, Ilorin, Kwara State
• Abdulsalam Abubakar University of Agriculture and Climate Action, Mokwa, Niger State
• Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology, Oferekpe, Ebonyi State
• Cross River University of Education and Entrepeneurship, Akampa, Cross River State
• Benue State University of Agriculture Science and Technology, Ihugh
• University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering Ezza, Ebonyi State

PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES

• Achievers University, Owo
• Adeleke University, Ede
• Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti - Ekiti State
• African University of Science and Technology, Abuja
• Ajayi Crowther University, Ibadan
• Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin
• Al-Qalam University, Katsina
• American University of Nigeria, Yola
• Anchor University Ayobo Lagos State
• Arthur Javis University Akpoyubo Cross river State
• Atiba University Oyo
• Augustine University
• Ave Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State
• Babcock University,Ilishan-Remo
• Baze University
• Bells University of Technology, Otta
• Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
• Bingham University, New Karu
• Bowen University, Iwo
• Caleb University, Lagos
• Caritas University, Enugu
• Chrisland University
• Christopher University Mowe
• Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede, Imo State
• Clifford University Owerrinta Abia State
• Coal City University Enugu State
• Covenant University Ota
• Crawford University Igbesa
• Crescent University
• Dominican University Ibadan Oyo State
• Dominion University Ibadan, Oyo State
• Edwin Clark University, Kaigbodo
• Eko University of Medical and Health Sciences Ijanikin, Lagos
• Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin
• Evangel University, Akaeze
• Fountain Unveristy, Oshogbo
• Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike - Enugu State
• Greenfield University, Kaduna
• Gregory University, Uturu
• Hallmark University, Ijebi Itele, Ogun
• Hezekiah University, Umudi
• Igbinedion University Okada
• Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji
• Kings University, Ode Omu
• Kola Daisi University Ibadan, Oyo State
• Kwararafa University, Wukari
• Landmark University, Omu-Aran
• Lead City University, Ibadan
• Legacy University, Okija Anambra State
• Madonna University, Okija
• Maranatha University, Lagos
• Mcpherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ajebo
• Micheal & Cecilia Ibru University
• Mountain Top University
• Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
• Novena University, Ogume
• Obong University, Obong Ntak
• Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu - Osun State
• Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos
• Paul University, Awka - Anambra State
• Redeemer's University, Ede
• Renaissance University, Enugu
• Rhema University, Obeama-Asa - Rivers State
• Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom
• Salem University, Lokoja
• Skyline University, Kano
• Southwestern University, Oku Owa
• Spiritan University, Nneochi Abia State
• Summit University, Offa
• Tansian University, Umunya
• Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State
• University of Mkar, Mkar
• Veritas University, Abuja
• Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa - Edo State
• Wesley University Ondo
• Western Delta University, Oghara Delta State
• Glorious Vision University, Ogwa, Edo State
• Precious Cornerstone University, Oyo
• PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Portharcourt
• Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Kwara State
• Mudiame University, Irrua, Edo State
• Havilla University, Nde-Ikom, Cross River State
• NOK University, Kachia, Kaduna State
• Karl-Kumm University, Vom, Plateau State
• James Hope University, Lagos, Lagos State
• Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano State
• Capital City University, Kano State
• Ahman Pategi University, Kwara State
• University of Offa, Kwara State
• Mewar International University, Masaka, Nasarawa State
• Edusoko University, Bida, Niger State
• Philomath University, Kuje, Abuja
• Khadija University, Majia, Jigawa State
• Anan University, Kwall, Plateau State
• North Eastern University, Gombe
• Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri, Borno
• Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Ogba, Ganmo, Ilorin, Kwara State
• African University of Economics, FCT, Abuja
• Al-Bayan University, Ankpa, Kogi State
• Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, Kano State
• Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja
• Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye Ogun State
• Amadeus University, Amizi, Abia State
• Amaj University, Kwali, Abuja
• Azman University, Kano State
• Baba Ahmed University, Kano State
• British Canadian University, Obufu Cross River State
• Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja
• College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna State
• Cosmopolitan University Abuja
• El-Amin University, Minna, Niger State
• Elrazi Medical University Yargaya University, Kano State
• Eranova University, Abuja
• European University of Nigeria, Duboyi, FCT
• Franco British International University, Kaduna State
• Gerar University of Medical Science Imope Ijebu, Ogun State
• Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Sagbama, Bayelsa State
• Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemisi, Ekiti State
• Huda University, Gusau, Zamafara State
• Iconic Open University, Sokoto State
• Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos State
• Jewel University, Gombe state
• Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State
• Khalifa Isiyaku Rabiu University, Kano
• Lens University, Ilemona, Kwara State
• Lighthouse University, Evbobanosa, Edo State
• Lux Mundi University Umuahia, Abia State
• Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Enugu State
• Margaret Lawrence University, Umunede, Delta State
• Mercy Medical University, Iwo, Ogun State
• Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun State
• Ojaja University Eiyenkorin, Kwara State
• Westland University Iwo, Osun State

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