The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, FCVSN, has called on Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian universities to provide strong leadership and support ongoing reforms aimed at transforming the country’s university system into a responsive, resilient and globally competitive sector.
Ribadu made the call on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, while delivering a goodwill message at the 37th General Assembly Conference of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVC), held at the University of Ilorin.
The NUC Executive Secretary highlighted the Commission’s seven-pillar transformative agenda and the NUC-PDAC Blueprint 2.0, describing the latter as a 13-objective roadmap designed to drive the sustainable transformation of the Nigerian University System (NUS).
He stressed that the success of the reforms would depend largely on the commitment, leadership and collaboration of Vice-Chancellors, urging university leaders to work collectively with the NUC to strengthen the quality and credibility of Nigerian higher education.
According to him, universities have a shared responsibility to uphold regulatory standards, safeguard academic integrity and protect the reputation of the Nigerian University System.
Ribadu reaffirmed the NUC’s commitment to deepening collaboration with university authorities to address emerging challenges while improving the overall quality and competitiveness of Nigerian universities.
He said the Commission would continue to prioritise quality assurance, innovation and research, expand access to university education, promote digitisation and implement measures to ensure greater stability in the academic calendar.
The NUC chief further emphasised the importance of strong institutional leadership in driving sustainable reforms, noting that transforming the university system requires more than regulatory intervention. It also demands active partnership and commitment from university managers and other stakeholders.
READ ALSO: Kwara CP Warns Police Against Unlawful Phone Searches of NYSC Members
The 37th CVC General Assembly provided a platform for Vice-Chancellors and other stakeholders in the Nigerian university sector to deliberate on issues affecting the development, stability and global competitiveness of higher education in the country.
Ribadu’s call comes amid growing efforts by the NUC and other stakeholders to reposition Nigerian universities through stronger regulatory compliance, improved academic standards, technological innovation and research-driven development.
He urged Vice-Chancellors to embrace the reform agenda and work with the Commission to build a university system capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s changing needs and competing favourably on the global stage.
