This move follows protests and intervention by regulators after UNICAL’s over-admission crisis exposed gaps in Nigeria’s higher education oversight.
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has transferred 62 students from its Department of Dentistry to Rivers State University (RSU), ending months of uncertainty following the institution’s controversial over-admission crisis.
The decision comes after weeks of negotiations between UNICAL, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the Nigerian Dental Association. Officials said the transfer aims to safeguard the academic progress of affected students after it was discovered that UNICAL’s dental program lacked full accreditation to accommodate the number of admitted candidates.
The issue first came to light in mid-2025, when students were reportedly instructed to withdraw from the Dentistry program and “go learn a trade.” The directive triggered nationwide outrage and a wave of protests across the Calabar campus. Students marched to the office of the Vice Chancellor, demanding justice and clarity after spending years pursuing degrees that suddenly appeared invalid.
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Faced with growing pressure, the university opened consultations with education regulators and professional bodies to find a resolution. Following the review, Rivers State University — which holds full accreditation for Dentistry — agreed to accept 62 of the displaced students so they could continue their studies without losing academic years.
University authorities described the development as a “corrective and humanitarian” solution to a crisis that had damaged public trust. “We deeply regret the distress caused to our students and their families,” a senior UNICAL official said. “Measures are now being put in place to ensure compliance with regulatory limits on admissions.”
While the transfer brings relief to many students, dozens more remain in limbo, awaiting placement in other accredited institutions. Some have expressed frustration over prolonged delays and unclear communication from the university.
Education analysts say the incident underscores chronic challenges in Nigeria’s higher education system, including weak regulatory enforcement and capacity mismatches between enrolment and available infrastructure.
The NUC has since reiterated its commitment to stricter monitoring of university admissions and accreditation standards, warning that institutions violating approved quotas may face sanctions.
For now, the affected students at Rivers State University are resuming classes and clinical training, grateful for a chance to continue their academic paths — even as others still wait for a resolution.
