Federal Universities Established Under Muhammadu Buhari’s Administration: A Legacy of Expanding Access to Higher Education in Nigeria

Federal Universities Established Under Muhammadu Buhari’s Administration: A Legacy of Expanding Access to Higher Education in Nigeria, During his tenure as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari made significant strides in the education sector, especially in the establishment of new federal universities across the country. In line with efforts to decentralize education, promote regional development, and meet the growing demand for specialized and general higher education, his administration approved and established multiple federal institutions spanning diverse disciplines and regions.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the federal universities established and approved during the Buhari administration (2015–2023):

✅ 1. Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko (2018)

Located in Delta State, this university was created to enhance Nigeria’s capacity in maritime studies and boost the blue economy.

✅ 2. Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna (2018)

A specialized institution under the Nigerian Air Force, now functioning as a degree-awarding federal university focused on aerospace and defense technologies.

✅ 3. Nigerian Army University, Biu (2018)

This is Nigeria’s first greenfield Army university, established in Borno State to promote academic and military research.

✅ 4. Federal University of Transportation, Daura (2018)

Strategically located in Katsina State, this university aims to provide advanced training in rail and road transport technology.

✅ 5. Federal University of Health Technology, Otukpo (2020)

Situated in Benue State, this university focuses on training healthcare professionals and enhancing Nigeria’s health sector.

✅ 6. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (2021)

Approved in Bauchi State, this institution strengthens the nation's human capital in medical and health sciences.

✅ 7. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun (2021)

Another major investment in health education, this university in Osun State was approved to serve the Southwest region.

✅ 8. Federal University of Technology, Babura (2021)

Located in Jigawa State, this university supports innovation and technological advancement in northern Nigeria.

✅ 9. Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (2021)

Approved in Akwa Ibom State, this university adds to Nigeria’s growing portfolio of tech-driven institutions.

✅ 10. Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru (2021)

Kebbi State now hosts this agricultural university aimed at improving food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

✅ 11. Federal University of Education, Aguleri (2023)

Anambra State’s new institution focuses on producing highly skilled teachers and educational researchers.

✅ 12. David Nweze Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, Uburu (2022)

Named after the former governor of Ebonyi State, this university is a key player in Nigeria’s quest to improve medical education and services.

✅ 13. Admiralty University, Ibusa (2023)

Though originally established through a public-private partnership, the Admiralty University in Delta State was formally approved by the federal government in 2023 to operate as a federal institution.

Nationwide Impact and Legacy

President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration prioritized the strategic placement of universities across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones to balance educational opportunities. Many of these institutions specialize in critical sectors health, agriculture, defense, transport, and technology—reflecting a forward-looking approach to nation-building.

These universities not only create access to higher education for thousands of Nigerians but also serve as regional development hubs, creating jobs and promoting innovation.

The legacy of educational development under Muhammadu Buhari is clear in the number and scope of universities established during his administration. These institutions are poised to play vital roles in shaping Nigeria’s future and closing the educational gap across the country