The National Universities Commission (NUC) has ordered the closure of universities across the country in preparation for the 2023 General Elections.
This directive was given by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, after extensive consultations with relevant security agencies.
According to a letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellors of all universities and directors of inter-university centres, academic activities are to be suspended between February 22nd and March 14th, 2023.
The letter from the NUC reads, “As Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and Director/Chief Executive of Inter-University Centres are quite aware the 2023 General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 25, 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday, March 11, 2023, for Gubernatorial and State Assembly, respectively.”
The NUC noted that the directive was based on concerns for the safety of students, staff, and properties of the universities.
The letter continued, “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. Adama 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 February 22 and March 14, 2023.”
The NUC has requested the Vice-Chancellors and chief executives of inter-university centres to shut down their institutions from Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023, to Tuesday, March 14th, 2023.
The letter concluded with, “Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive Secretary’s highest regard for your understanding and unwavering cooperation.”
The closure of universities across Nigeria will undoubtedly affect the academic calendar and the studies of students.
However, the NUC and the Minister of Education believe that this measure is necessary to ensure the safety of all concerned during the 2023 General Elections.
