Officials from the London Academy Business School and the University of Sunderland are in the process of obtaining approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to offer degree programs in Nigeria.
Dr. Derek Watson, an associate professor from the faculty of business law and tourism at the University of Sunderland, led a delegation that confirmed this development following a meeting with the acting Executive Secretary of NUC, Chris Maiyaki.
Watson emphasized that the academic standards in Nigeria would match those of their counterparts in the United Kingdom. The institutions also pledged to adhere to the guidelines and regulations provided by the NUC.
He stated, “The University of Sunderland has over 30 years of experience. What we have agreed on today is the criticality of following the compliance procedures. In addition to that, we would source credible academics to deliver our programs from LABS who are qualified teachers and also practicing consultants. The students will get the same experience as those students studying in England.”
Dr. Larry Jones-Esan, President/Director of Studies at the London Academy Business School, clarified that the purpose of the visit to NUC was to secure recognition for running programs in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of NUC’s permission and recognition, highlighting the consequences of operating without their approval.
He stated, “So for us to do that, we have to get their permission first before we go out there and start recruiting students. Otherwise, we will be shooting ourselves in the foot. If they come here and say you are doing something illegal, you will pay a fine, and before you get out of that, it will be too much.”
The team also visited the Nigerian Public Service Institute in Abuja, which is intended to serve as a study center.
Abdul-Ganiyu Obatayinbo, the administrator and Chief Executive Officer of the institute, expressed his satisfaction with the facilities, which he considered superior to what the University of Sunderland has in the UK.
Various undergraduate and master’s level courses are expected to be offered, including computer science, business and management, network system engineering, business administration, international business management, and education leadership, among others.
The collaboration between the University of Sunderland and the London Academy Business School aims to address the growing demand for quality higher education in Nigeria and contribute to the capacity building of public and civil servants in the country.