The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment and commencement of postgraduate programmes, as well as the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, at Salem University, Lokoja.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Alewo Johnson-Akubo, announced the development in Lokoja on Monday, describing it as a major milestone in the institution’s pursuit of academic growth and excellence.
According to him, the approval followed a rigorous accreditation and verification process conducted by the NUC, which assessed the university’s infrastructure, faculty strength, and learning resources.
Prof. Johnson-Akubo explained that the newly approved postgraduate programmes include Postgraduate Diploma, Master of Science (M.Sc), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) degrees in Biochemistry, Mass Communication, and International Relations.
He expressed delight that Salem University’s consistent investment in modern academic facilities—ranging from well-equipped laboratories and libraries to digital classrooms—was instrumental in meeting the NUC’s standards for accreditation.
“This approval is a welcome development, and we see it as the manifestation of divine favour upon the university,” the vice chancellor said. “We remain committed to our vision of transforming graduates into global leaders who will make positive impact in every sphere of human endeavour.”
He noted that the institution’s leadership had, over the years, focused on creating an enabling environment for research, innovation, and character formation, all of which have now earned the university greater academic recognition.
With this approval, Salem University is set to commence admissions into the MBBS and newly accredited postgraduate programmes in the 2025/2026 academic session. Prof. Johnson-Akubo stated that preparations are already underway to ensure that the new programmes run smoothly and in full compliance with NUC guidelines.
He also extended appreciation to the university’s founding chancellor, Archbishop Sam Amaga, and the entire Salem University community for their dedication and contributions to the institution’s steady rise in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
“This is a historic moment for Salem University,” he said. “We are proud to have reached this stage, and we will continue to uphold the academic integrity and values that define our institution.”
Observers have described the NUC’s approval as a testament to Salem University’s growing reputation as a centre for quality learning and research in Nigeria. Established in 2007, the institution has continued to expand its academic offerings while promoting leadership, discipline, and innovation among students.
The addition of the MBBS programme is expected to strengthen the university’s contribution to Nigeria’s healthcare sector, producing well-trained medical graduates equipped with both scientific knowledge and ethical responsibility.
Similarly, the launch of postgraduate programmes in Biochemistry, Mass Communication, and International Relations is seen as a strategic move to build capacity for advanced research and professional expertise in critical fields.
The NUC’s recent decision aligns with its broader goal of improving access to postgraduate education and encouraging private universities to develop specialized programmes that address national development needs.
With this latest approval, Salem University joins the growing list of private institutions in Nigeria offering full-fledged medical and postgraduate studies, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and global competitiveness.
