NUC Orders Shutdown Of varsities Over Elections

Nigeria’s tertiary regulatory body National Universities Commission (NUC) has ordered the closure of all universities to allow students participate in the 2023 general elections.

NUC said the decision is based on the directive from the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, in a letter sent to vice-chancellors of all universities and the directors of inter-university centres dated Thursday, February 9, 2023.

The letter reads “As Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and Director/Chief Executive of Inter-University Centres are quite aware that the 2023 General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday 25th February 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday 1st March 2023 for Gubernatorial and State Assembly elections, respectively.

“In view of the foregoing and concerns expressed on the security of staff, students and properties of our respective institutions, the Honourable Minister of Education, Mal. Adamu Adamu following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all Universities and Inter-University Centres be shut down and academic activities suspended between 22 February and 14th March 2023.

“Consequently, Vice-Chancellors and chief executives of inter-university centres, are by this Circular requested to shut down their respective Institutions from Wednesday 22nd February 2023 to Tuesday 14th March 2023.

“Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive Secretary’s highest regard for your understanding and unwavering cooperation.”