The National Universities Commission NUC, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu has directed the closure of all universities and inter-university centres in the country between February 22 and March 14, 2023.

In a three-paragraph circular dated February 3, 2023 and signed by the Deputy Executive Secretary (Administration), Chris Maiyaki, the NUC said there would be no academic activities during the period of the shutdown.

According to the commission, the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, gave the directive following consultations with relevant security agencies.

The circular also said the decision followed concerns about the security of members of staff, students and the universities’ property during the general elections scheduled to hold on February 25 and March 14, 2023.

The statement reads in part: “As Vice- Chancellors of all Universities and Directors/ Chief Executive of inter-university centres are quite aware, the 2023 general elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 25, for the presidential and National Assemble, and Saturday March 11, 2023 for the gubernatorial and State Assembly respectively.

In view of the foregoing and concerns expressed on the security of staffers, students and the property of our respective institutions, the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu has following extensive consultations with relevant security agencies, has directed that all universities and inter-university centres in the country be shut down and academic activities be suspended between Wednesday, February 22 to Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

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