The National Universities Commission (NUC) has ordered the closure of universities across the country to enable students to participate in the 2023 general elections.

This is contained in a letter addressed to Vice-Chancellors of all universities and Directors of Inter-University Centres, and obtained by BRANDPOWER.

The letter was signed by the Deputy Executive Secretary (Administration), Christopher Maiyaki.

The NUC said that the directive was based on the directive of the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu.

Maiyaki said: “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 Sat. Feb. 25, 2023, for the presidential and National Assembly, and Sat. March 11, 2023 for gubernatorial and State Assembly, respectively.

“In view of the foregoing and concerns expressed on the security of staffers, students and properties of our respective institutions, the Minister of Education, has, following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all universities and Inter-University Centres be shut down.

” And also academic activities will be suspended between Feb. 22 and March 14, 2023.”

Full text of the Circular

” As vice-chancellors of all universities and Directors chief Executive of later university centres are quite aware 2023. General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday, 25th February 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday, 11th March 2023 for Gubernational and state Assembly, respectively. 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. Adamu 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 22nd February and 14th March 2023.

Consequently, Vice Chancellors, as well as Directors and Chief Executives of Inter-University centres, are by this circular requested to shut down their respective institutions from Wednesday 22nd February 2023 to Tuesday 14th March 2023.

Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive secretary’s highest regards for your understanding and unwavering cooperation.”