This Week's Highlights: Nigerian Education News (May 15 - May 22, 2026)
The past week in Nigerian education has been marked by significant developments, ranging from industrial unrest warnings to pivotal leadership changes and crucial admission updates. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has renewed threats of industrial action over unfulfilled agreements, casting a shadow over the academic calendar. Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu made headlines with the appointment of a young, dynamic Registrar for JAMB, signalling a fresh approach to examination management. Prospective students are navigating a flurry of Post-UTME announcements and critical JAMB processes, while institutions across the country forge ahead with academic events and policy reforms.
ASUU's Stance: Mounting Pressure Over Unimplemented 2025 Agreement
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) across various zones, including Benin and Northwest, has issued strong warnings of impending industrial action if the Federal and State Governments continue to neglect the full implementation of the 2025 FGN/ASUU agreement. This agreement, formally unveiled in January 2026, was intended to usher in lasting industrial harmony in public universities. However, ASUU reports that the enthusiasm is quickly fading due to the government's fragmented implementation and failure to constitute an Implementation Monitoring Committee (IMC).
Specific grievances highlighted by ASUU include:
- Partial Salary Payments: Federal university administrators are allegedly selectively paying Consolidated Academic Allowances (EAA) and professorial allowances, violating the agreement's directive for these to be mainstreamed into monthly salaries.
- State Government Non-Compliance: Many state governors, particularly those of Edo, Delta, and Ondo States within the Benin Zone, are accused of refusing to implement the salary components of the agreement, despite federal directives.
- Outstanding Welfare Issues: Lecturers are still demanding the payment of the 25-35% salary award, promotion arrears, unremitted third-party deductions, salary shortfalls from IPPIS errors, and the three-and-a-half months' salaries withheld during the 2022 strike.
- Policy Inconsistencies: The union condemns plans to scrap "irrelevant" academic programs, the reversal of the mother-tongue policy in early childhood education, and the proposed establishment of a Coventry University campus in Nigeria without consultation.
While commending the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Effurun, for full implementation, ASUU berates institutions like the University of Benin (UNIBEN) for non-compliance. The union insists that public universities face "imminent paralysis" if the government maintains its "old tactics of disrespecting collective bargaining."
ASUU's Demands: Full implementation of the 2025 FGN/ASUU agreement, immediate payment of all outstanding allowances and arrears, reversal of "irrelevant" course scrapping, and greater consultation on education policies.
JAMB in Focus: New Leadership & UTME Updates
This week brought significant news from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), starting with a change in leadership and continuing with crucial updates for UTME candidates.
A New Era for JAMB: Professor Segun Aina Appointed Registrar
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of JAMB, succeeding Professor Ishaq Oloyede whose tenure concludes on July 31, 2026. The appointment of Professor Aina, a 40-year-old Professor of Computer Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, has been widely applauded as a bold statement of confidence in young Nigerian excellence. His credentials include a PhD in Digital Signal Processing and extensive experience in digital infrastructure, examination systems, and institutional reforms, having previously worked with bodies like NECO and NABTEB. Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga stated that the appointment underscores the administration's belief in merit-driven leadership and generational inclusion, expecting Aina to build on the transformative legacy of his predecessor.
UTME Results, Original Slips, and Admission Processes
JAMB has continued its post-UTME activities, releasing an additional 279 results that were previously withheld for investigation. While some results were cleared, others remain under review for suspected malpractice. The Board's Head of Communications, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, explained that the printing of 2026 UTME Original Result Slips has not yet commenced as JAMB concludes foreign and mop-up examinations. Candidates are urged to exercise patience, as the original slips, which include candidate ranking, will be activated shortly.
For candidates contemplating their next steps, JAMB has officially activated its portal for the 2026 UTME change of course and institution. This process requires a mandatory fee of ₦2,500 (plus CBT service charges) and can be done at accredited centers or JAMB offices. Candidates are strongly advised to confirm eligibility and requirements for their new choices, with resources like the Myschool JAMB brochure available to assist.
Key Takeaways for JAMB Candidates:
- Original Result Slips: Printing is delayed; await official announcement.
- Change of Course/Institution: Portal is active; verify new program requirements before applying.
- Post-UTME Preparation: Start immediately, don't wait for school announcements.
Adding a layer of policy debate, the Taraba State wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has rejected the Federal Ministry of Education’s decision to waive JAMB requirements for admission into colleges of education. The union argues this move would negatively impact the standard and dignity of the teaching profession and calls for an immediate reversal.
Admissions Spotlight: Universities, Polytechnics & Colleges
The admission cycle for the 2026/2027 academic session is in full swing, with numerous institutions announcing their Post-UTME/Direct Entry screening exercises and opening application portals.
University Admissions Update
Several universities have released their Post-UTME and Direct Entry application details for the 2026/2027 academic session:
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO): Applications opened May 22, closing July 31. Minimum UTME scores range from 150 to 200 depending on the program (e.g., MBBS requires 200). Application fee is N2,000.
- Federal University Otuoke (FUOTUOKE): Applications began May 20, closing July 17. Minimum UTME score of 150. Application fee N2,000. Crucially, O'Level results *must* be uploaded on JAMB CAPS.
- University of Cross River State (CRUTECH): Online registration commenced May 21 for candidates who scored 150 and above. Screening fee is N2,000, and candidates are not required to appear physically.
- University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo: Inviting applications from candidates with a minimum UTME score of 150. Change of institution to UAES is permitted.
- Ritman University: Inviting applications for its NUC-approved undergraduate programs, with an opportunity for change of institution for interested candidates.
- Precious Cornerstone University (PCU), Ibadan: Admission portal open for undergraduate, part-time, and postgraduate programs. Minimum UTME score of 150 and 5 O'Level credits.
- Niger Delta University (NDU): Application forms for Post-UTME & DE open June 1, close July 31. Minimum UTME score of 150, fee N2,000. Screening test Aug 3-7.
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS): Has released its approved minimum admissible cut-off marks for all undergraduate programs, advising candidates to verify their scores against departmental thresholds.
- University of Ibadan (UI): Explained its admission process through JAMB CAPS, emphasizing that admission is not solely based on UTME scores but also combines screening criteria.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): Released detailed guidelines for 2026/2027 Postgraduate admissions (PGD, Master’s, M.Phil., Ph.D.). Applications opened April 7, closing July 24, with forms submission by July 31.
Polytechnic & Specialized College Admissions
Beyond universities, polytechnics and health-related colleges are also opening their gates for new intakes:
- Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa: Announcing admission into its Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) for the 2025/2026 academic session, targeting graduates without teaching qualifications.
- Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara: Inviting applications for its ND Regular, HND, and Weekend programs for 2026/2027. ND candidates need a minimum UTME score of 100, with application fees ranging from N2,000 to N15,000.
- Gateway ICT Polytechnic: Applications for ND fulltime admission for 2026/2027 are open.
- Lagos State College of Health Technology (LASCOHET): Admission forms for 2026/2027 are on sale from May 19 to July 18, with a fee of N25,000. Diverse programs in Community Health, Environmental Health, Medical Laboratory, and Pharmacy Technician are available.
- Garu Islamic College of Health Technology, Bauchi: Applications open for HND, ND, Professional Diploma, and Certificate programs in various health fields for 2026/2027. Forms are purchased directly from the campus.
Nursing & Health Sciences Admissions
Several nursing colleges are calling for applications for their 2026/2027 academic sessions:
- St. Mary Joint Hospital College of Nursing Sciences, Amaigbo (CONSA): Admission open for its Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degree program. Requires a minimum UTME score of 160 and N31,300 application fee. Form sales from May 19 to August 19, screening test on August 22.
- Makurdi College of Nursing Sciences: Invites applications for its General Nursing Programme. Requires a minimum JAMB UTME score of 150 and costs N20,000. Sales are from May 18 to August 25.
- Okunland College of Nursing Sciences: Accepting applications for the General Nursing Programme, with an application fee of N20,000.
- College of Nursing Sciences, Adazi-Nnukwu: Inviting candidates for Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, and Post Basic Nursing. Application fee is N15,400.
- University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) School of Nursing Sciences: Inviting qualified Nurses for Post-Basic Diploma Programs in Paediatric Nursing and Accident & Emergency Nursing. Application fee of N20,000, with an entrance exam on September 18.
External Examinations: WAEC & BEQAEB
WAEC GCE (2nd Series) 2026 Registration Commences
Registration for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates 2026 – Second Series has officially begun. The registration fee is N27,000. Prospective candidates must generate their PIN by July 31, 2026, and complete biometric capturing and online registration by 11:59 pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026. The examination is expected to be conducted using CBT, and candidates are advised to use CBT software for preparation. "Walk-in-Candidates" can also register for N45,000 up to 24 hours before their paper.
Mock SSCE Registration Portal Closure
The Benue State Education Quality Assurance and Examinations Board (BEQAEB) announced the closure of its Mock SSCE registration portal on Sunday, May 24, 2026. Participation in the Mock SSCE is a mandatory requirement for accreditation and clearance for candidates intending to sit for external examinations in 2027. School administrators are urged to ensure all eligible candidates are registered to avoid disqualification.
Campus Life & Student Welfare
Nigerian campuses are bustling with activity and policy implementations aimed at maintaining order and enhancing the student experience.
Student Conduct and Safety
Several institutions have reinforced rules concerning student conduct:
- MAUTECH SUG issued a stern warning against harassment of female students around Kabir Umar Hostel.
- Federal University Wukari (FUWUKARI) SUG strictly prohibited the buying or selling of hostel bed spaces, threatening disciplinary action for violators.
- Federal Polytechnic, Bida banned unauthorized social activities on campus without prior approval from the Dean of Student Affairs.
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) initiated a hostel verification exercise to identify and eject illegal occupants, requiring students to present relevant documents.
- Lagos State University (LASU) strictly prohibited illegal Point of Sale (POS) operations and indiscriminate hawking on campus, citing security and environmental concerns. Violators face goods confiscation and fines.
- Emmanuel Alayande University of Education strengthened security protocols on campus and urged vigilance due to recent security concerns in the neighborhood.
Academic Policies and Digital Integration
Universities are also rolling out policies and initiatives to improve academic standards and student services:
- Southern Delta University reiterated its mandatory 70% lecture attendance policy, stating that failure to meet this threshold disqualifies students from examinations.
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) announced a mandatory digital skill training program, requiring students to obtain at least two valid certifications from its ICT and Innovation Hub as part of graduation clearance.
- Lagos State University (LASU) commenced the distribution of new Smart ID cards to 2024/2025 admitted students. These cards serve as both identity and payment cards, providing seamless access to academic, financial, and access control services.
Academic Development & Institutional Milestones
Institutions across Nigeria are celebrating academic achievements, welcoming new students and leaders, and striving for enhanced educational quality.
Inaugural Lectures & Investitures
Academic discourse and leadership transitions marked the week:
- Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) will host its 14th Inaugural Lecture on May 29, delivered by Prof. Duke Okoro on environmental pollution in a petroleum nation.
- Benue State University (BSU) announced its 25th Inaugural Lecture by Professor Joseph Ngbea on June 4, focusing on "The Human Skin."
- Gombe State University (GSU) scheduled its 24th Inaugural Lecture by Professor Mary Erasmus Sulai for June 2, addressing "Invisible Hunger, Apparent Consequences on Cognitive Performance of Learners."
- Crescent University announced its maiden Inaugural Lecture by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rasaki Olufemi Kareem, discussing "Resource Efficiency vs. Economic Development: Whither Nigeria?"
- Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASUED) announced the investiture of its 6th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samuel Ekundayo Oladipo, on June 23.
Matriculation Ceremonies
New students are being formally welcomed into various institutions:
- Dorben Polytechnic, Abuja held its 27th Matriculation Ceremony on May 23.
- Gombe State University (GSU) also hosted the matriculation ceremony for the pioneer students of its Faculty of Agriculture on May 23.
- Bayelsa State College of Nursing Sciences (BYSCONS) will hold its Maiden Matriculation Ceremony on May 30, welcoming students from the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sets.
- Baptist College of Theology, Benin City conducted its first batch entrance exam on May 21 for 2026/2027 admissions.
Accreditation and Expansion
Institutions are enhancing their capacity and program offerings:
- Achievers University, Owo secured pre-clinical accreditation for its MBBS program from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), leading to an expanded admission quota from 50 to 120 students. The university also received full accreditation for seven other programs.
- Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin is progressing with plans to establish a Medical School, rallying global support and undergoing curriculum review, with a National Universities Commission (NUC) resource verification visit in advanced stages.
- University of Ibadan (UI) urged Nigerian universities to prioritize innovation and problem-solving research over purely theoretical studies, emphasizing practical impact and commercialization.
NYSC & Graduate Matters
NYSC 2026 Batch 'B' Stream I Orientation Course
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Directorate Headquarters has released the official timetable for the 2026 Batch 'B' Stream I Orientation Course. The exercise will commence on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, with registration running until Friday, June 12. The swearing-in ceremony is also on June 12, and the closing ceremony on June 30. Prospective Corp Members (PCMs) must arrive and register within the specified window to avoid forfeiture.
NYSC Kwara State Secretariat Relocates
The NYSC Kwara State Secretariat announced its relocation to a new permanent administrative office at No. 9 Onikanga Street, G.R.A., Ilorin, effective Monday, May 25, 2026, to enhance service delivery.
Important Announcements & Alerts
NOUN Impersonation Alert
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) issued an alert to the public regarding several fake social media accounts impersonating its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma. The university clarified that the VC does not operate personal social media accounts for official business and warned against engaging with these fraudulent accounts.
Looking Ahead
As May draws to a close, several important deadlines and events are on the horizon. WAEC GCE (2nd Series) PIN generation closes on July 31, with online registration by August 2. JAMB's change of course/institution is ongoing, and many Post-UTME applications will begin in late May and June, with various deadlines extending into July. Jigawa State Polytechnic's semester exams commence on June 1, the same day Aminu Saleh College of Education, Azare, resumes academic activities after its Sallah break. Myschool.ng’s price increase takes effect on June 1, making early purchases advantageous for students. The NYSC Batch 'B' Stream I Orientation Course kicks off on June 10, setting a busy month for new corps members.
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