Planning of Public University Education in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

Public Universities in Nigeria are faced with many challenges which are traced to poor planning. This paper intends to critically examine the problems hindering effective planning of public universities in Nigeria. To do, Secondary data were adopted to provide empirical facts to support points raised in the paper. Inadequate funding, inadequate data, corruption, political instability, policies instability, poor capacity development of planners, shortage of planners, inadequate planning facilities and political influence were identified as problems hindering effective planning of public universities in Nigeria. To address these problems identified in this paper, it was recommended that the NUC should develop a road map strategic plan on establishment of public universities in Nigeria, planned document should be implemented faithfully and Planner should be allowed to do their professional work. More planners should be employed, funds, planning materials should be provided adequately to all ministries and commission handling planning of university education. Educational policies and those inherited should be implemented as planned and government should reach riot act against influencing establishment of public universities in Nigeria.