Just In: NUC Approves Cross River University of Education, Akamkpa

 The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted approval for the establishment of the Cross River State University of Education and Entrepreneurship, making it the 67th state university in Nigeria. 

The announcement was made by the NUC Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu, during a ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, where he presented the recognition letter to Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu. Governor Otu was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh.

Ribadu described the approval as a significant milestone for Cross River State, emphasizing its potential to drive innovation, educational advancement, and entrepreneurship in the region.

 He highlighted that the new university is designed to deliver quality education with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in today’s economy. The approval, he noted, reflects a commitment to enhancing higher education and contributing to the socio-economic growth of Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.

“The approval of this university aligns with our mandate to regulate and maintain quality assurance in the Nigerian university system,” Ribadu stated.

 He praised Cross River State’s dynamic higher education landscape, which includes six notable universities—one federal, one state, and four private institutions—alongside other tertiary establishments.

 He also commended the state government for its efforts in expanding access to quality higher education through policy initiatives, infrastructure development, and funding.

The establishment of a second state-owned university, Ribadu added, underscores the government’s dedication to broadening higher education opportunities. 

He called on stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the institution’s success, urging it to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity, research excellence, and governance. “This university should not just increase the number of institutions in the country but stand out as a symbol of learning, character development, and social transformation,” he said.

Ribadu assured the NUC’s continued support and guidance to help the Cross River University of Education and Entrepreneurship achieve its full potential.

In his response, Governor Otu, through his representative, expressed gratitude to the NUC for its role in realizing the state’s vision. 

He described the establishment of the university as a dream come true and a significant step forward in advancing education in Cross River State. Otu also highlighted the university’s potential to address unemployment by equipping graduates with relevant skills for the job market.

“We have dreamt of this day, worked tirelessly for it, and are grateful for the NUC’s guidance and support,” Otu said. “Today, we present the academic briefs, master plan, and university law, which we believe meet all NUC requirements. This marks our readiness to move forward with this transformative project.”