Academics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka have praised the Federal Government’s recent seven-year embargo on establishing new federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Speaking in Nsukka, Prof. Okechukwu Nwaubani said the measure could enable proper funding and upgrading of existing schools. “Well-funded public institutions will produce globally competitive graduates. The focus should be on equipping what we already have, not expanding recklessly,” he said.
Dr Chinedu Ejezie, Senior Lecturer in Political Science, called the embargo “an important step in the right direction,” adding that its success would depend on political will. He urged government to consider extending the policy if facilities remain inadequate by the end of the seven years.
Also, Dr George Akubue of UNN’s Institute of African Studies applauded the initiative, stressing that Nigeria’s education ranking would improve once federal institutions meet global standards.
The freeze was announced on 13 August by Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa after a Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
