The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved Omega University, Kaduna, just as the Commission directed the institution to commence academic activities with admission of students in this academic session.

The approval was announced on Friday in Abuja during the presentation of the operational licence to the promoters of the faith based institution.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu said the approval marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another for the institution.

Ribadu congratulated the management and promoters for successfully meeting all the requirements for the establishment of a private university.

“Today marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new era. You have crossed all the hurdles. The university is now approved and no longer proposed,” he said.

The NUC boss disclosed that the institution would commence operations with 10 undergraduate academic programmes, adding that there was no reason why the university should not begin admitting students this year.

Besides, he further announced that Kaduna State University would serve as the mentor institution for Omega University, providing guidance and technical support to ensure compliance with the Commission’s standards.

The Executive Secretary urged the management to remain committed to the operational guidelines and quality assurance standards of the Commission in order to sustain excellence.

Meanwhile, in his remarks, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Reverend Joseph John Hayab, expressed appreciation to the NUC for what he described as the professionalism, support and transparent processes that culminated in the approval of the university.

Hayab assured the Commission that the institution would operate strictly in line with approved university regulations and would not compromise on quality.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical account of Mary, the mother of Jesus, he said the management had carefully taken to heart every piece of advice given by the Executive Secretary.

“Like the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, we have kept everything the Executive Secretary has said in our hearts. We will ensure that we do everything required so that we will not bring shame to ourselves or to the Commission,” he said.

He stressed that since Omega University would be driven by faith based individuals, it would be anchored on excellence, integrity and accountability.

“We do not just want to have another university. We want to build a university that will stand the test of time, contribute meaningfully to nation building and make significant impact in Nigeria’s education sector,” Hayab added.

Addressing journalists shortly after the event, the Pro Chancellor of Omega University and President of Messengers Foundation, the community outreach arm of Restoration Ministries, Rev. Dr. Tunde Bolanta, described the issuance of the operational licence as the fulfilment of a long cherished vision.

“Today we are here to collect the licence. After a long journey, it has finally come to pass. We have been on this for a long time, but by the grace of God we are here at the NUC receiving the licence,” he said.

Bolanta disclosed that the institution was fully prepared to commence academic activities immediately and would admit its pioneer students this year.

According to him, all necessary facilities and structures have been put in place, while assuring prospective students that the tuition will be affordable.

“We are putting in place processes and plans that will make it possible for students to pay as they go. We want to make quality university education accessible to many Nigerians,” he said.

He also welcomed the mentoring arrangement with Kaduna State University, noting that both institutions being located in Kaduna State would make collaboration easier and more productive.

“We are fortunate that Kaduna State University will mentor us. Being in the same state gives us the opportunity to work closely together for positive results,” he added.

Bolanta called on prospective students to embrace the opportunity of studying at the institution, promising that Omega University would deliver world class education anchored on quality, discipline and godly values.

“This is going to be a world class university. We will provide quality education, build a better Nigeria and raise God fearing graduates who will champion development in every sector of society. Our goal is excellence, quality and the highest standards,” he said.

With the approval, Omega University joins the growing list of licensed private universities in Nigeria and is expected to begin academic activities in Kaduna State during the 2026/2027 academic session.