Senate Proposes Bill to Enhance NUC's Regulatory Powers

The Nigerian Senate has passed for a second reading a bill titled National Universities Commission Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2026 (SB. 1056), which seeks to strengthen the regulatory powers of the National Universities Commission (NUC). Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, the bill was presented by Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North Senatorial District.

Monguno stated that the existing NUC Act is outdated due to changes in Nigeria's higher education landscape, including the rise of private universities and technological advancements. The proposed legislation aims to enhance the NUC's ability to enforce regulations, improve quality assurance, and promote internationally recognized academic standards.

It also seeks to balance regulatory oversight with institutional autonomy and address funding challenges in university education. Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, supported the bill, advocating for stronger enforcement powers for the NUC to address governance issues in private universities.