The Nigerian Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has clarified that the Federal Government has no intentions of selling universities to private investors.
This statement was made during the Second Quarterly Engagement meeting with heads of units and chief executive officers of parastatals and agencies under the Ministry of Education.
This clarification comes in response to accusations from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which alleged that the government was planning to hand over federal universities to investors through public-private partnerships.
Prof. Mamman categorically denied these claims, stating, “There is no plan to sell off universities to investors.”
He elaborated that the government’s policy is focused on transnational education, aimed at opening up Nigeria’s tertiary education sector to international investors.
“Transnational education is a policy that allows for international investment in our tertiary system, bringing expertise and resources from around the world,” Mamman explained.
He emphasized that this initiative is intended to enhance global competitiveness, not to privatize public universities.
Mamman highlighted the significant role of the private sector in Nigeria’s educational landscape, noting that there are currently more private universities than public ones in the country.
He stressed that the government’s reform agenda includes inviting international universities to set up institutions in Nigeria, either independently or in collaboration with local universities, to improve standards and foster exchange programs.
Drawing comparisons with other regions, Mamman pointed out the benefits countries in Asia have reaped from transnational education.
“Countries in Asia have greatly benefited from international institutions setting up there, enhancing their educational standards and economic benefits through exchanges and investments,” he said.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to public institutions, stating, “This government believes in our public institutions. We are not selling them off. Our goal is to create a competitive educational environment that can stand on par with global standards.”
The engagement session with heads of agencies and parastatals was aimed at reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and reaffirming commitments to advancing the country’s educational landscape.
Mamman expressed confidence that these collaborative efforts would significantly improve Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
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