NUC Approves New State University in Imo, Nigeria Now Has 301 Universities

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Moma, in Imo State, bringing the total number of universities in Nigeria to 301.

The approval was formally presented to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Monday in Abuja by the NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, during a brief ceremony.

According to Ribadu, the new university becomes Imo State’s third state-owned university, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education. He stressed that the university must be adequately funded and properly equipped, with the NUC set to conduct a resource verification visit before full operations begin.

The university will now be listed with relevant bodies, including the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Professor Ribadu described the initiative as a “bold and strategic step” by the Imo State Government, commending the administration’s efforts in building educational infrastructure and pursuing knowledge-driven development. He urged all stakeholders to work together to uphold academic excellence and ensure the institution plays a transformative role in society.

“This university should not just be another addition to the list,” Ribadu said. “It must be a true centre of learning, character building, and societal transformation.”

Governor Uzodinma, in his remarks, said the new university will focus on digital, vocational, and entrepreneurial skills, aiming to produce job creators rather than job seekers. He revealed that the university is being developed in partnership with the University of California, Berkeley, to ensure global standards in its curriculum and training.

He highlighted that over 50,000 young people have already been trained through the state’s Digital City initiative, and the new university will offer formal certification to help them integrate better into the workforce.

“This will not only boost our economy and internally generated revenue, but also help build a more civilised, productive society,” Uzodinma said.

The establishment of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of education and economic growth in Imo State and beyond.