The Federal Government has urged the National Assembly to suspend consideration and passage of bills seeking to establish new federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across Nigeria, citing concerns over funding and the sustainability of existing institutions.
The government’s position was conveyed in a letter dated 22 November 2026 and addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
It expressed concerns that the continued creation of new federal tertiary institutions could place additional pressure on government finances, particularly at a time when existing institutions are struggling with funding challenges.
The move is expected to affect several legislative proposals before the National Assembly seeking to establish additional federal institutions in different parts of the country.
The government is concerned that establishing more institutions without adequate financial provisions could further undermine the quality of education and the effective management of existing universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.
Nigeria currently operates numerous federal tertiary institutions, many of which face challenges relating to infrastructure, staff shortages, inadequate facilities and limited funding.
The development could reignite debate over whether establishing more institutions is the best way to expand access to higher education or whether the government should prioritise strengthening existing ones.
The Federal Government’s request now places the responsibility on lawmakers to weigh the political and educational benefits of establishing new institutions against the financial implications for the country.
