The National Universities Commission (NUC) has lifted the embargo on foreign universities operating in Nigeria.
This move, according to the Commission, aims to attract foreign direct investment into education.
More importantly, it is designed to strengthen global competitiveness across Nigerian universities.
The announcement was made during the 10th convocation ceremony of Gregory University, Uturu (GUU) in Abia State.
NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, disclosed this through his representative, Offor Chukwuemeka.
Opening Nigeria’s Doors to Global Academic Partnerships
Professor Ribadu explained that the policy shift allows structured international collaborations. According to him, partnerships will operate under six competitive modes.
These include franchise, branch campus, and twinning or articulation arrangements. Other approved options are open and distance learning (ODL), acquisition, and teaching institutions.
He stressed that the reforms would make Nigerian graduates globally attractive.
As he noted, products of Nigerian universities should become “global hotcakes.”
Governance Reforms and Curriculum Overhaul
In addition, the NUC has introduced a code of governance for private universities.
The goal, he said, is to ensure uniform operational standards nationwide.
Furthermore, the Commission has re-engineered university curricula.
Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) have been replaced with CCMAS.
“NUC during the curriculum review adopted a 70:30 NUC:university ratio for curriculum content.
“NUC provided 70 per cent of the minimum core courses, which are mandatory for graduation in Nigerian universities, and 30 per cent for universities to customise and align with their unique areas of expertise.”
This structure, according to education analysts, encourages innovation while maintaining national standards.
GUU Commended for Innovation and Growth
While emphasising 21st-century employability skills, the NUC praised GUU’s management.
The Commission described the university’s progress as part of Nigeria’s educational revolution.
Meanwhile, Abia State Governor Alex Otti applauded the university’s founder, Professor Gregory Ibe.
Represented by Professor Uche Eme Uche, Otti reaffirmed his commitment to education reforms.
Accreditation Success and New Academic Frontiers
Vice Chancellor Professor Cele Njoku highlighted the university’s rapid expansion.
She noted that GUU grew from three colleges to twelve within 13 years.
The institution now runs over 53 departments. She added that all eight courses submitted to NUC in 2024 received full accreditation.
Additionally, new programmes such as Artificial Intelligence and foreign languages were introduced.
She urged graduands to remain worthy ambassadors of the institution.
Founder’s Vision and a Graduate’s Call to Action
Founder Professor Gregory Ibe, represented by Professor Augustine Uwakwe, reaffirmed his vision. He said the university was established to make quality education accessible. He also promised continued support for academic excellence.
In his valedictory address, best graduating student Master Onyechere Chinedum Yadirichukwu spoke passionately.
“It is time for us to build the Nigeria we want.”
The 21-year-old accountant, who graduated with a 4.91 CGPA, dedicated his success to his parents.
Honours for Distinguished Nigerians
The convocation also featured the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees.
Among the recipients was former Enugu State governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
Others included HRM Eze Linus Nto Mba and Dr. Okenze Sylvester Obinna.
Overall, the lifting of the embargo signals a major policy shift.
It reflects Nigeria’s intention to reposition its university system globally.
The coming years will reveal how effectively these reforms reshape higher education.