The Senate has directed an immediate investigation into the administration and operations of Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State, following allegations of administrative misconduct and questions over the institution’s adherence to regulatory standards established by the National Universities Commission.
The decision was taken after Senator Victor Umeh raised a motion drawing attention to alleged violations of established regulatory procedures at the university, particularly regarding the appointment and dismissal of staff.
The concerns prompted calls for a thorough examination of the institution’s administrative practices and compliance with existing regulations governing university operations in Nigeria.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio subsequently instructed the relevant committee to investigate the allegations, examine the circumstances surrounding the university’s activities and present its findings to the Senate for consideration.
Akpabio emphasised the importance of reinforcing the regulatory powers of the National Universities Commission to ensure that public and private universities comply with the laws guiding the administration of higher education institutions. He also stressed that the National Assembly has an oversight responsibility to assist the commission in maintaining standards and ensuring compliance throughout the university system.
The Senate President further stated that the legislature could recommend appropriate measures to the President if investigations establish that an institution has breached relevant laws. Such recommendations, he noted, could include the proscription of a university found to have violated the applicable legal provisions.
The development comes amid the Senate’s consideration of an executive bill proposing the repeal of the National Universities Commission Act 2026 and the introduction of a revised legal framework to strengthen the regulation of university education across the country.
The proposed legislation, presented for second reading by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Munguno, seeks to expand the NUC’s regulatory and enforcement powers, revise minimum academic standards and improve accreditation procedures. It is also intended to ensure that Nigerian universities align their academic and administrative practices with internationally recognised standards.
Other provisions of the bill include the introduction of appropriate penalties for institutions that violate regulatory requirements and the strengthening of the commission’s authority as the principal agency responsible for accrediting academic programmes in Nigerian universities.
During deliberations, lawmakers underscored the need for a more effective regulatory structure to improve quality assurance, encourage research and innovation, and enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian universities. They maintained that stronger oversight mechanisms would help ensure that institutions maintain acceptable academic standards and operate within the provisions of the law.
The Senate has referred the investigation into Tansian University to its Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFund, directing the panel to submit its report within two weeks. The probe will proceed alongside legislative consideration of the NUC reform bill, which has passed its second reading.
