The Federal Government has directed universities across Nigeria to immediately expel any student found guilty of involvement in kidnapping or other serious criminal offences, describing such acts as incompatible with the values and responsibilities of higher education.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, during a meeting with vice-chancellors and other education officials, where he stressed that tertiary institutions must not serve as safe havens for criminal elements under the guise of academic pursuit.
According to the minister, universities are expected to produce graduates who demonstrate integrity, discipline and respect for the rule of law. He warned that students who engage in kidnapping, terrorism, armed robbery or related crimes have forfeited their place within the nation’s higher education system.
Alausa said the Federal Government would continue to support university authorities in enforcing disciplinary measures against individuals whose actions threaten the safety of campuses and the wider society. He maintained that institutions must respond firmly to criminal behaviour while preserving their primary mandate of teaching, research and character development.
The minister also urged university governing councils and managements to strengthen internal security mechanisms by improving collaboration with security agencies, deploying intelligence-driven approaches and enhancing surveillance systems across campuses.
He noted that rising security concerns in parts of the country require tertiary institutions to adopt proactive measures capable of protecting students, staff and university facilities.
Alausa further encouraged institutions to intensify student orientation programmes on lawful conduct, civic responsibility and the consequences of criminal activities, stressing that preventive education remains an important strategy for reducing crime among young people.
He added that counselling services should be strengthened to identify and support students facing challenges that could expose them to criminal influences.
The directive comes amid growing national concern over insecurity and the involvement of some young people in kidnapping and other organised crimes.
Education observers say the government’s position reflects a broader effort to reinforce discipline within tertiary institutions while ensuring that universities remain environments dedicated to learning, innovation and responsible citizenship.
They note that beyond disciplinary sanctions, sustained investment in campus security, student welfare, mentorship and values-based education will be essential in preventing criminality and safeguarding Nigeria’s higher education system.
