Franco-British International University (FBIU), Kaduna, has received a permanent operational licence from the National Universities Commission (NUC), allowing the institution to operate as a private university in Nigeria.
At the same time, the NUC has granted the Canadian University of Nigeria (CUN) a further two years on its provisional operational licence.
Both decisions took effect from 10 July 2026 following the Commission’s review of the institutions.
What the FBIU Licence Changes
The permanent licence gives FBIU statutory approval to operate as a private university in Nigeria.
The licence was dated 10 July 2026 and was presented to FBIU President, Professor Abdullahi Sabo Muhammad, by the NUC Director of Inspection and Monitoring, Mrs Justina Emerole.
The presentation was made on behalf of the NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu.
Why FBIU Was Granted Permanent Status
The approval followed the university’s completion of the requirements under the Education–National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions Act, Cap E3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
The institution also completed the required probationary period, after which its performance was reviewed.
The NUC subsequently approved the permanent operational licence.
CUN Gets More Time Under Provisional Licence
The NUC has also extended the Canadian University of Nigeria’s provisional operational licence for another two years.
The extension became effective on 10 July 2026.
According to the information provided, the additional period is intended to give CUN more time to begin academic activities and strengthen its institutional development.
What the NUC Reviewed at CUN
Before approving the extension, a NUC review team assessed CUN’s activities during a visit conducted from 23 to 25 April 2026.
The review considered the university’s compliance with requirements for establishing and operating a private university, including the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards.
The Commission considered the findings and recommendations from the review before approving the two-year extension.
Conditions Attached to CUN’s Extension
CUN has been directed to accelerate preparations for the commencement of its academic activities during the extension period.
The university was also encouraged to continue the progress made in the renovation and remodelling of its facilities.
At the end of the two-year extension, the NUC is expected to conduct another verification visit.
That follow-up exercise will determine whether CUN has met the conditions attached to its provisional operational licence.
FBIU and CUN Have Different Licence Positions
The two NUC decisions should not be confused.
FBIU: Received a permanent operational licence dated 10 July 2026.
CUN: Received a two-year extension of its provisional operational licence, also effective from 10 July 2026.
The approvals followed separate regulatory reviews and carry different requirements for the two institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What licence did FBIU receive?
FBIU received a permanent operational licence from the National Universities Commission.
When was the FBIU licence dated?
The licence is dated 10 July 2026.
What does the FBIU permanent licence mean?
It allows Franco-British International University to operate statutorily as a private university in Nigeria.
How long was CUN’s licence extended?
The Canadian University of Nigeria’s provisional operational licence was extended by two years.
When did the CUN extension take effect?
The extension took effect on 10 July 2026.
When did the NUC review CUN?
A Commission review team visited CUN from 23 to 25 April 2026.
What will happen after CUN’s extension period?
The NUC is expected to conduct a follow-up verification visit to assess CUN’s compliance with the conditions attached to its provisional licence.
