NUC approves new university for Cross River

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment of a new state-owned university in Cross River State named the Cross River State University of Education and Entrepreneurship.

The provisional licence for the university’s operation was presented to the Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, in Abuja on Tuesday.

The NUC Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, said the new university has been recognised as the 67th state university in Nigeria.

He said the approval marks a significant milestone for the state, as it aims to foster innovation, educational development, and entrepreneurship within the region.

He stated that the new institution is expected to provide quality education with a strong focus on entrepreneurship, equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in the modern economy.

He also added that the approval reflects a commitment to advancing higher education and contributing to the socio-economic development of Cross River State and beyond.

‘The approval of this proposed university shall be in line with our mandate to regulate and maintain quality assurance in the Nigerian university system.

‘Cross River State has a rich and evolving higher education landscape with institutions that foster academic excellence, research, and community development. Currently, the state is home to six notable universities, comprising a federal, a state, and four private universities among tertiary institutions.

‘The state government has played a significant role in expanding access to quality higher education through policies, infrastructure development, funding, and now the establishment of a second state-owned university, which further underscores the government’s commitment to expanding higher education opportunities.’

He commended the state government’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the educational advancement of the people.

Speaking, the governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, said the establishment of the university is a dream come true in the history of education in Cross River State.

‘We have dreamt of this day. We have worked for this day. And coming this far, we appreciate the effort of the NUC in guiding us, supporting us, and giving us all the directions to do what today is merely a fulfilment,’ he said.

As expected, he presented academic briefs, the master plan, the university law, and some other necessary documents to the NUC Executive Secretary for proper documentation.