The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially granted an operational licence to Omega University, Kaduna, ending its status as a proposed institution and paving the way for the university to commence academic activities with the admission of its pioneer students in the 2026/2027 academic session.

The licence was presented on Friday in Abuja by the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, during a formal ceremony attended by the promoters and management of the university. Blueprint reports

The approval marks another milestone in Nigeria’s higher education sector as the Federal Government continues to expand access to university education through the licensing of qualified private institutions to complement public universities and address the growing demand for tertiary education.

‘A new era has begun’ – NUC

Presenting the licence, Prof. Ribadu congratulated the promoters of Omega University for successfully meeting the stringent requirements prescribed by the Commission, describing the occasion as the beginning of a new chapter for the institution.

“Today marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new era. You have crossed all the hurdles. The university is approved and no longer proposed,” Ribadu declared.

He disclosed that the institution had received approval to commence operations with 10 undergraduate academic programmes, adding that there was no reason the university should not begin admitting students for the 2026/2027 academic session.

According to him, the Commission remains committed to ensuring that every licensed university complies with established standards aimed at producing graduates capable of competing globally.

The NUC boss also announced that Kaduna State University (KASU) would serve as the mentor institution for Omega University, providing academic guidance, technical support and institutional mentorship during its formative years.

He urged the university’s management to remain committed to quality assurance, regulatory compliance and continuous improvement, stressing that obtaining a licence was only the beginning of the journey.

“The challenge before you now is to sustain the standards that earned you this licence. Quality must remain your watchword because that is what the Commission expects from every university operating in Nigeria,” he said.

Nigeria expanding access to university education

The approval comes at a time when the Federal Government, through the NUC, is intensifying efforts to improve access to higher education by licensing more private universities while strengthening quality assurance mechanisms.

In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed a steady increase in the number of private universities as government seeks to reduce the pressure on public institutions and provide more opportunities for the country’s growing youth population.

Education stakeholders have consistently argued that the expansion of private universities, if properly regulated, will enhance competition, improve educational standards and contribute to national development through research, innovation and manpower development.

Hayab pledges excellence, integrity

Speaking on behalf of the promoters, the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. Joseph John Hayab, expressed gratitude to the NUC for what he described as its professionalism, transparency and encouragement throughout the rigorous licensing process.

He assured the Commission that Omega University would operate strictly within the approved regulations and would never compromise academic quality or institutional integrity.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical account of Mary, the mother of Jesus, Hayab said the management had carefully taken to heart every piece of advice offered by the Executive Secretary.

“Like the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, we have kept everything the Executive Secretary has said in our hearts. We will ensure that we do everything required so that we will not bring shame to ourselves or to the Commission,” he said.

Hayab stressed that because the university was being established by faith-based individuals, its operations would be anchored on excellence, integrity, accountability and service to humanity.

“We do not just want to establish another university. We want to build an institution that will stand the test of time, contribute meaningfully to nation building and make significant impact in Nigeria’s education sector,” he added.

He noted that beyond academic excellence, the university would focus on character formation, ethical leadership and the development of graduates who would positively influence society.

Admissions to begin immediately

Addressing journalists shortly after receiving the licence, the Pro-Chancellor of Omega University and President of Messengers Foundation, the community outreach arm of Restoration Ministries, Rev. Dr. Tunde Bolanta, described the approval as the fulfilment of a long-cherished vision.

“Today we are here to collect the licence. After a long journey, it has finally come to pass. We have been on this for a long time, but by the grace of God we are here at the NUC receiving the licence,” he said.

Bolanta disclosed that the university had completed the necessary preparations to begin academic activities immediately and would admit its pioneer students during the current admission cycle.

He explained that all critical facilities, infrastructure and administrative structures required by the Commission had been put in place ahead of the commencement of operations.

Affordable education a priority

The Pro-Chancellor assured prospective students and parents that Omega University would maintain affordable tuition without compromising academic standards.

According to him, the institution is developing a flexible payment structure that will allow students to pay their fees in instalments, making quality university education more accessible to many Nigerian families.

“We are putting in place processes and plans that will make it possible for students to pay as they go. We want to make quality university education accessible to many Nigerians,” he said.

Bolanta also welcomed the decision of the NUC to appoint Kaduna State University as the institution’s mentor university, noting that the geographical proximity of both institutions would strengthen collaboration in academic development, research, staff training and institutional growth.

“We are fortunate that Kaduna State University will mentor us. Being in the same state gives us the opportunity to work closely together for positive results,” he added.

He further called on prospective students to take advantage of the opportunity offered by the new institution, assuring them that Omega University would provide world-class education rooted in discipline, innovation, entrepreneurship and godly values.

“This is going to be a world-class university. We will provide quality education, build a better Nigeria and raise God-fearing graduates who will champion development in every sector of society. Our goal is excellence, quality and the highest standards,” he said.

A boost for Kaduna’s education landscape

The licensing of Omega University is expected to further strengthen Kaduna State’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading centres of higher education, joining a growing number of public and private universities contributing to teaching, research and human capital development.

Education experts believe the emergence of another licensed institution in the state will not only expand access to tertiary education but also stimulate economic activities through job creation, infrastructure development and increased investment in the education sector.

With the operational licence now secured, Omega University is set to commence admissions for the 2026/2027 academic session, opening a new chapter in its vision of producing graduates equipped with knowledge, character and leadership skills to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.