The National Universities Commission (NUC) reiterated its stance on Thursday that Nigerian tertiary institutions are strictly prohibited from charging tuition fees in foreign currencies.
Chris Maiyaki, the acting Executive Secretary of the NUC, emphasized this position during a press briefing with education reporters in Abuja. His remarks were prompted by a statement from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) summoning proprietors of private universities and other higher education institutions suspected of imposing fees in foreign currencies.
Maiyaki clarified the situation, stating, “Regarding the alleged practice of dollarizing tuition fees in the mentioned university, our investigation has revealed that the institution does not charge fees in dollars. Such fees are solely applicable to foreign students.
Therefore, I urge the media to collaborate with us in disseminating the message that Nigerian universities are not permitted to levy fees in foreign currencies.”
Additionally, the executive secretary announced the NUC’s ongoing commitment to approving new universities, provided they meet stringent standards and demonstrate long-term viability.
He disclosed plans to issue licenses to two additional universities the following week, thereby increasing the current count of 270 institutions across the nation.
This expansion initiative, according to Maiyaki, aims to address the persistent gap between the demand for and supply of university education in Nigeria, ultimately reducing the reliance on foreign institutions.
Moreover, he highlighted the NUC’s efforts to streamline the establishment of Distance Learning Centers nationwide, further enhancing access to quality education for all.
