Nigeria has gone from just 49 universities in 1999 to nearly 300 today. On the surface, this sounds like progress—but is it really? In this episode of the Franktalknow Podcast, Dr. Olabisi Deji-Folutile takes a hard look at Nigeria’s higher education system and asks whether building more universities is solving our problems or making them worse.

From chronic underfunding and inadequate infrastructure to brain drain and watered-down standards, existing institutions are already buckling under pressure. Yet, over 200 fresh bills to establish new universities are before the National Assembly. Is this expansion about education—or politics?

We also compare Nigeria’s situation with global models, including China and the United States, to understand what truly makes a higher education system thrive.

Tune in as we unpack the numbers, controversies, and consequences behind Nigeria’s university boom—and what it means for the future of students, lecturers, and the nation itself.

👉 Share your thoughts with us on our WhatsApp group or at franktalknow.com.


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Welcome to the Franktalknow Podcast, your go-to source for in-depth discussions on higher education and political affairs in Nigeria. I’m your host, Dr. Olabisi Deji-Folutile, a journalist with over three decades of experience covering education in Nigeria. As the Editor-in-Chief of Franktalknow.com and a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, I’ve dedicated my career to shedding light on critical issues affecting our nation. Join me as we explore the topics that matter, featuring insightful conversations and expert analyses to keep you informed and engaged.

In this episode of the Franktalknow Podcast, host Dr. Olabisi Deji-Folutile dives into the contentious proposal to convert Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university. Announced in February 2025 by Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, with President Bola Tinubu’s approval, the move has sparked significant opposition from the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) and other stakeholders .
Dr. Deji-Folutile examines the implications of this conversion on Nigeria’s technical education landscape, highlighting concerns about the potential erosion of hands-on, industry-focused training that polytechnics traditionally offer . The episode also explores alternative solutions proposed by NAPS, such as awarding Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degrees within polytechnics and establishing a dedicated Polytechnic Education Commission . 
Join us as we unpack the facts, present diverse perspectives, and discuss the future of technical education in Nigeria.

In this eye-opening episode of the Franktalknow Podcast, host Dr. Olabisi Deji-Folutile examines the crisis surrounding the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). What began as a routine exam for nearly 2 million candidates turned into a national scandal—marred by widespread technical glitches, server failures, and public outrage.

We explore how faulty software patches and lapses by a key technical service provider disrupted CBT centres across Lagos and the South-East, affecting hundreds of thousands of students. With JAMB admitting fault and offering resits, deeper questions remain: Was this just technical failure—or something more sinister?

Dr. Deji-Folutile dives into the regional suspicions, political accusations, and emotional fallout, including tragic reports of extreme distress among students. She also analyzes the legislative response and what this means for the future of digital exams in Nigeria.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, students, policymakers, and anyone concerned about the credibility of Nigeria’s education system. Join the conversation and share your thoughts: Is it time for a complete overhaul of the UTME structure?

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