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Complete List Of Illegal Universities In Nigeria By Nuc For 2025

The National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria serves as the regulatory body overseeing university education in the country. One of its critical functions is to identify and shut down illegal universities operating without proper accreditation. As of January 2025, the NUC has published a comprehensive list of institutions that have been closed for operating illegally. This blog post aims to provide an updated overview of these institutions, discuss the implications of attending unaccredited universities, and offer guidance on how to verify the accreditation status of higher education institutions in Nigeria.

Understanding the NUC's Role

The NUC is empowered by the Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act to regulate university education in Nigeria. Its responsibilities include granting approval for all academic programs, establishing new institutions, and ensuring quality assurance across the university system. A significant aspect of this mandate involves identifying and closing down institutions operating without proper authorization.

Implications of Attending Illegal Universities

Enrolling in an unaccredited institution can have severe consequences for students, including:

• Invalid Certificates: Degrees obtained from unaccredited institutions are not recognized by employers, other educational institutions, or professional bodies.
• Ineligibility for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC): Graduates from illegal universities are not eligible to participate in the NYSC program, which is mandatory for Nigerian graduates.
• Financial Loss: Tuition fees paid to these institutions are non-refundable, leading to significant financial loss for students and their families.
• Wasted Time and Effort: Years spent studying at an unaccredited institution cannot be reclaimed, resulting in lost time and effort that could have been invested elsewhere.

Comprehensive List of Illegal Universities Closed by the NUC

As of January 2025, the NUC has identified and closed the following illegal universities operating in Nigeria:

1. University of Accountancy and Management Studies
2. Christians of Charity American University of Science & Technology, Nkpor, Anambra State
3. University of Industry, Yaba, Lagos
4. University of Applied Sciences & Management, Port Novo, Republic of Benin
5. Blacksmith University, Awka
6. Volta University College, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
7. Royal University Izhia, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
8. Atlanta University, Anyigba, Kogi State
9. United Christian University, Macotis Campus, Imo State
10. United Nigeria University College, Okija, Anambra State
11. Samuel Ahmadu University, Makurdi, Benue State
12. UNESCO University, Ndoni, Rivers State
13. Saint Augustine’s University of Technology, Jos, Plateau State
14. The International University, Missouri, USA, Kano and Lagos Study Centres
15. Collumbus University, UK
16. Tiu International University, UK
17. Pebbles University, UK
18. London External Studies, UK
19. Pilgrims University
20. Lobi Business School, Makurdi, Benue State
21. West African Christian University
22. Bolta University College, Aba
23. JBC Seminary Inc. (Wukari Jubilee University), Kaduna
24. Westlan University, Esie, Kwara State
25. St. Andrews University College, Abuja
26. EC-Council University, USA, Ikeja Lagos Study Centre
27. Atlas University, Ikot Udoso Uko, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
28. Concept College/Universities (London), Ilorin
29. Halifax Gateway University, Ikeja
30. Kingdom of Christ University, Abuja
31. Acada University, Akinlalu, Oyo State
32. Fifom University, Mbaise, Imo State
33. Houdegbe North American University campuses in Nigeria
34. Atlantic Intercontinental University, Okija, Anambra State
35. Open International University, Akure
36. Middle Belt University (North Central University), Otukpo
37. Leadway University, Ughelli, Delta State
38. Metro University, Dutse/Bwari, Abuja
39. Southend University, Ngwuro Egeru (Afam) Ndoki, Rivers State
40. Olympic University, Nsukka, Enugu State
41. Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Abuja
42. Temple University, Abuja
43. Irish University Business School London
44. National University of Technology, Lafia, Nasarawa State
45. University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
46. Cape Coast University, Ghana
47. African University Cooperative Development (AUCD), Cotonou, Benin Republic
48. Pacific Western University, Denver, Colorado, Owerri Study Centre
49. International School of Theology and Philosophy, Abuja
50. Theological University of America, Abuja
51. Saint Paul’s University College, Awka, Anambra State
52. Evangelical Christian University of America, Enugu State
53. Coastal University, Iba-Oku, Akwa Ibom State
54. United Bible University, Studies Centres in Lagos and Abuja
55. Bamenda University, Adamawa State
56. Transworld Institute of Technology, Lagos
57. St. Clement University, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State
58. Volta University College, Aba, Abia State
59. Royal University College, Izhia, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
60. West Coast University, Umuahia, Abia State

These universities have been declared illegal by the National Universities Commission (NUC) because they operate without proper accreditation. Some of them claim affiliation with foreign institutions, while others operate without physical campuses, offering degrees through online means without meeting the required academic standards.

How to Identify Fake or Unaccredited Universities in Nigeria

To avoid falling victim to illegal universities, prospective students and parents should consider the following steps before enrolling in any institution:

1. Check the NUC Website

The NUC regularly updates the list of approved universities in Nigeria. Visit the official NUC website (www.nuc.edu.ng) to verify if the institution is accredited.

2. Verify Physical Location

Most illegal universities operate from temporary structures or do not have a verifiable address. Always visit the school to confirm its existence and facilities.

3. Confirm the University’s Accreditation Status

Accredited universities must have their academic programs approved by the NUC. Students should request evidence of accreditation before applying.

4. Beware of Unrealistic Admission Offers

If an institution offers instant admission without requiring JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) results or other standard entry requirements, it is likely fake.

5. Investigate Foreign Affiliations

Some illegal universities claim to be affiliated with foreign institutions. Always cross-check such claims with the official websites of the supposed partner institutions.

What to Do If You Have Attended an Illegal University

If you have unknowingly attended an illegal university, there are a few steps you can take:

1. Report to the NUC

Visit the NUC office or website to report the institution. You may also be advised on possible alternatives for your academic future.

2. Consider Re-Enrolling in an Accredited Institution

If your degree is from an unaccredited university, you may need to start afresh at a recognized institution to obtain a valid degree.

3. Seek Legal Advice

In some cases, students can take legal action against fraudulent institutions that misled them. Consulting a lawyer may help explore possible remedies.

Conclusion

The rise of illegal universities in Nigeria remains a major concern, with thousands of students falling victim each year. To protect yourself, always verify the accreditation status of any institution before enrolling. The NUC continues to crack down on these illegal universities, ensuring that Nigerian students receive quality education from recognized institutions.

If you are planning to pursue higher education in Nigeria, make sure to research thoroughly and choose an accredited university to secure a valid degree and a bright future.

For more updates, visit the official NUC website or follow reputable education news sources.