As of November 27, 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Universities Commission, has approved a total of 147 private universities. These institutions coexist with those owned by the Federal and state governments.
The surge in private universities, from three in 1999 to 147 in 2023, is attributed to ongoing challenges in public universities such as frequent strikes, inadequate funding, and institutional decay. The NUC reports over 270 pending requests for new private universities.
Examining these private universities from the NUC’s website on Tuesday, it was revealed that many are established by religious organizations and current or former politicians.
Private Universities with Political Affiliations:
1. Bells University, Ogun state: Founded by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, this institution also includes former Governor of Gombe state, Ibrahim Dakwambo, and former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello on its board.
2. American University of Nigeria, Yola, Adamawa state: Owned by former Vice-President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar.
3. Amaj University, Kwali, Abuja: Established by former Governor of Sokoto state, Attahiru Bafarawa, and granted a license in 2023.
4. Hensard University, Bayelsa state: A newly licensed university owned by former Governor of Bayelsa state, Seriake Dickson.
5. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Rivers state: Founded by former Governor of Rivers state, Peter Odili, with Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar and Senator Abu Ibrahim on its board.
6. Baze University, Abuja: Founded by former Senator and 2023 Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed.
7. Eastern Palms University, Imo state: Established by former Governor of Imo state and Senator Rochas Okorocha.
8. Edwin Clark University: Founded by former federal commissioner of Information and elder statesman, Edwin Clark.
9. Sports University, Delta State: Owned by current Senator Ned Nwoko, licensed in 2021.
Additional Political Affiliations:
– Kings University, Odemu, Osun state: Board of Trustees member: Remi Tinubu, current First Lady and former Senator representing Lagos West senatorial district.
– Achievers University: Board of Trustees member: Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, Governor of Ondo state.
– Nile University, Abuja: Governing Council members include Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Osita Izunaso, among others.
– Gregory University Uturu, Abia state: Council Chairman: Sam Ohuabunwa, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party.
– Greenfield University, Kaduna: Board member: Muhammed Usman, former member of the Eighth House of Representatives, among others.
