FG Urged To Extend TETFUND Grants and Tax Waivers to Private Universities – Prof. Ibrahim Gambari
The Chancellor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, has appealed to the Federal Government (FG) to extend Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) grants and development projects to private universities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Speaking at the 17th Convocation Ceremony of the institution in Ogun State—where 667 students graduated for the 2024/2025 academic session—Prof. Gambari also urged the Federal, State, and Local Governments to grant tax waivers to private universities struggling with rising operational costs caused by Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges.
Gambari highlighted that private institutions are facing steep increases in electricity tariffs, security costs, solar power maintenance, water supply, internet subscriptions, and other operational expenses. He revealed that Crescent University’s monthly electricity bill rose from ₦1 million two years ago to over ₦20 million, emphasizing that such costs threaten the survival of many private institutions.
He urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to extend Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to private universities, noting that these institutions play a critical role in bridging Nigeria’s admission gap and enhancing human capital development.
“The government should view private universities as partners in progress, not just revenue sources,” Gambari stated.
“Private universities deserve inclusion in TETFUND through competitive research grants distributed fairly across all regions.”
Gambari further proposed tax relief measures for private universities, stressing their contribution to national development through research, innovation, and the training of employable graduates who continue to excel globally.
Statements from Crescent University Leadership
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibraheem Gbajabiamila, echoed the Chancellor’s call, urging the Federal Government to extend TETFUND benefits to private institutions nationwide. He lamented the high administrative costs currently borne by universities due to inflation and subsidy removal.
Gbajabiamila also commended the best-graduating student, Ganiyu Feranmi of the Bola Ajibola College of Law, while reaffirming the university’s zero-tolerance stance on exam malpractice, cultism, and other anti-social behaviors.
Prince Muhammad Ajibola, Proprietor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, noted that the legacy of the late Prince Bola Ajibola continues to inspire Crescent University’s focus on technological innovation, modern research, and academic excellence.
Key Takeaway:
Private universities in Nigeria play a vital role in national development but face serious financial strain. Stakeholders, led by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, are calling on the Federal Government to include private institutions in TETFUND programs and grant tax exemptions to ensure their sustainability and continued contribution to quality education.
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