*Reduces 2023-Imposed Baze University Moratorium From Five To Three Years
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The Council of Legal Education (CLE) has approved the launch of undergraduate law degree programs at seven emerging universities, while also expanding admission capacities at established institutions. The decisions, announced following the CLE’s fourth quarterly virtual meeting on October 28, 2025, chaired by Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN, OFR, Life Bencher, aim to address the growing demand for qualified legal professionals amid Nigeria’s evolving judicial and economic.
The approvals, presented by the Board of Studies under Director-General Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, Life Bencher, reflect a deliberate effort to decentralize legal training, particularly in underserved regions such as the North and South-South. However, three universities were denied clearance due to infrastructural and staffing deficiencies, underscoring the CLE’s stringent standards for academic quality and facilities.
The CLE granted provisional accreditation for the following institutions to commence Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) programs, each with an initial quota of 50 students at the 100 level. Follow-up visits by the Accreditation Panel are scheduled to ensure ongoing compliance:
- Peter University, Achina/Onneh, Anambra State
- Shanahan University, Onitsha, Anambra State
- Northwest University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
- Wesley University, Ondo, Ondo State
- Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri, Borno State
- Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State
- Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State
These approvals are expected to inject fresh talent into Nigeria’s legal workforce, with programs emphasizing core areas such as constitutional law, human rights, and commercial litigation. Stakeholders hail the move as a step toward equitable access to legal education, particularly in states with limited higher education options.
Denials: Shortcomings Halt Three Aspirants
In contrast, the CLE withheld approval for:
- Paul University, Awka, Anambra State
- Oduduwa University, Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Clifford University, Owerrinta, Abia State
Citing deficiencies in facilities and academic staffing, the CLE emphasized that these institutions must address the gaps before reapplying. Experts view this as a safeguard against diluting professional standards, with calls for targeted investments to fast-track compliance.
Admission Quota Enhancements
Recognizing “substantial improvements” in infrastructure and faculty strength, the CLE approved upward revisions to admission quotas for the 2026 intake at the 100 level:
| University | Previous Quota | New Quota | State/Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yobe State University, Damaturu | 50 | 100 | Yobe State |
| University of Maiduguri | 200 | 250 | Borno State |
| Veritas University, Bwari | 50 | 100 | Abuja |
| University of Port Harcourt | 50 | 100 | Rivers State |
These enhancements could add over 200 new law students annually, easing pressure on overcrowded programs and fostering diversity in legal expertise.
ResolutionOfCLEOctober2025Baze University in Abuja saw its 2023-imposed five-year moratorium on law admissions reduced to three years, following demonstrated compliance. The CLE also approved a quota increase from 50 to 100 students, crediting facility upgrades and recruitment of high-caliber academic staff. This decision is poised to revive the faculty’s momentum, positioning Baze as a key player in Abuja’s legal education hub.
The resolutions reflect the CLE’s proactive stance in a year marked by reforms, including the recent rescheduling of the November 2025 Call to the Bar Ceremony. With Nigeria’s judiciary facing backlogs and a surge in commercial disputes, these expansions are critical for producing ethical, skilled lawyers. Challenges such as funding constraints, faculty shortages, and regional disparities may test implementation.
Chief Ngige, in closing remarks, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to “excellence and equity,” urging approved universities to prioritize practical training and ethical grounding.
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