FG Orders Closure Of Nigerian Universities Ahead Of Elections | Details

The Federal government has directed that universities and inter-university centres close between 22 February and 14 March ahead of the 2023 general elections.

This is in response to calls by various individuals and organisations who have continued to express fears over the possible disenfranchisement of Nigerian students.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) confirmed this in a letter addressed to vice-chancellors and directors of inter-university centres.

The directive, according to the letter,

The NUC letter, dated 3rd February, was directed by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu and signed by NUC’s Deputy Executive Secretary, Chris Maiyaki.

According to the letter, all universities in the country are to be shut from February 22 to March 14 to allow students to also participate in the general election.

The letter reads:

“As vice-chancellors of all universities and directors/ Chief Executive of inter university centres are quite aware, the 2023 General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday 25 February 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday 11 March 2023 for Gubernatorial and State Assembly, 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 has, following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all Universities and Inter-University Centres be shut down and academic activities be suspended between 22nd February and 14th March, 2023.

“Consequently, Vice-Chancellors, as well as Directors/Chief Executives of inter-university centres, are by this Circular requested to shut down their respective Institutions from Wednesday 22 February 2023 to Tuesday 14 March 2023.

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