Nigerian Government Proposes Seven-Year Ban on New Tertiary Institutions

The Federal Government of Nigeria has requested the National Assembly to impose a seven-year moratorium on the establishment of new federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. This proposal, made by Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa in a memorandum dated November 2, 2026, aims to tackle significant challenges faced by existing tertiary institutions, such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified lecturers.

Alausa's appeal was directed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom North) and Senate Majority Leader Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central). The Federal Executive Council had approved this moratorium on August 13, 2025.

Alausa emphasized that the focus should be on strengthening current institutions rather than expanding access without sufficient resources. He identified problems like overcrowded classrooms and insufficient facilities, warning that creating more institutions would further strain resources.

The moratorium is intended to consolidate investments and improve the capacity of operational institutions while addressing existing shortages.