The state of public university education in Nigeria is in disarray, plagued by recurring strikes by university lecturers to protest inadequate welfare and infrastructure.
With frequent disruptions, students are negatively affected, often extending their study duration beyond the typical four years. This instability raises concerns about the quality of education and the future of graduates in the workforce.
Given the inability of successive Nigerian governments to resolve these pressing issues, many families are turning to private universities as a viable alternative. Currently, there are over 100 approved private universities in Nigeria, as indicated by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) website.
Interestingly, the rising performance and revenue generation of private universities have attracted the attention of several prominent Nigerian politicians. This shift indicates a growing interest in the education sector that can potentially reshape the future of higher education in the country.
What You Will Learn
- The impact of strikes on Nigerian public university students.
- The rise of private universities as alternatives to public education.
- Notable politicians involved in the private university sector.
- Tuition fee variations among private universities in Nigeria.
Here is a list of some prominent Nigerian politicians who own private universities within the country.
Olusegun Obasanjo (Bells University of Technology)
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo is the founder of the Bells University of Technology, situated in Ota, Ogun state. This private university was established in 2005 and has since been recognized for its educational contributions.
Atiku Abubakar (American University of Nigeria)
Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, is the owner of the American University of Nigeria, located in Yola, Adamawa State. Established in 2003, this university has made significant strides in providing quality education.
Baze University (Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed)
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the vice presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, is the founder of Baze University. This private institution, located at Jabi in Abuja, was established in 2011.
Eastern Palm University (Rochas Okorocha)
Rochas Okorocha, a former governor of Imo State, is the founder of Eastern Palm University. Although it reportedly opened in 2017, it is important to note that it is not listed among the accredited universities on the NUC website.
It is crucial to highlight that the Imo State government is disputing the ownership of the university, currently under the administration of Hope Uzodinma, Okorocha's successor. The Imo state government is determined to take control of the institution due to allegations of corruption and has renamed it Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University.
Tuition Fees of Top Private Universities in Nigeria
Meanwhile, a report by Agora Policy, a Nigerian think-tank, has highlighted the tuition fees charged by some private universities in Nigeria. The report recommends practical solutions to address urgent national challenges.
Among other recommendations, Bolaji Abdullahi, former commissioner for education in Kwara State and minister for youth development and sports, advised the federal government to reduce its involvement in university administration. This could pave the way for more innovative approaches to managing higher education.
Source: Legit.ng
