Federal Government Calls for Pause on New Universities and Polytechnics for Seven Years

The Federal Government has asked the National Assembly to stop approving new federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education for seven years. This request aims to tackle ongoing funding issues in the education sector and maintain academic standards.

This appeal was made in a memo from the Federal Ministry of Education, dated November 2, 2026, and addressed to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. The memo warns that creating more institutions could worsen the current funding crisis and lead to lower quality education.

Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa explained that the Federal Executive Council had approved this moratorium to address the growing number of public tertiary institutions and the duplication of academic programs. He emphasized that the main focus should be on strengthening existing institutions rather than just expanding access.

The memo pointed out that many current federal universities and colleges are struggling with inadequate funding, overcrowded classrooms, and poor facilities. Alausa noted that adding more institutions could complicate these existing problems instead of improving the situation.

Additionally, the memo highlighted the government’s financial commitments to improve public universities, revealing that only a fraction of promised funding has been released so far. Alausa cautioned that without proper funding, new institutions could become financial burdens on future governments.

While the minister acknowledged the need for expansion in some cases, he urged lawmakers to support the moratorium to ensure that any future growth in the education sector is sustainable and well-planned. He argued that the success of the education system should be based on the quality of education rather than the quantity of institutions.