The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, has successfully concluded the inaugural National University Advancement Program (NUAP), a landmark national initiative designed
to strengthen institutional advancement capacity across Nigeria’s Federal Universities.

Delivered over five cohorts between 16 June and 1 July 2026, the intensive three-day University Advancement Boot Camp brought together 129 participants representing Federal Universities from across the country. The program equipped
university leaders and advancement professionals with the knowledge, strategies, and practical tools required to establish and strengthen sustainable fundraising, alumni engagement, strategic communications, partnership development, and
institutional advancement functions within their respective universities.

The initiative forms part of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Maruf Alausa, CON’s, national advancement agenda to strengthen the sustainability, resilience, and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s higher education institutions
through the institutionalization of modern university advancement practices.

The boot camp was led by Dr. Anne Okaomee, PhD, Executive Director of the NHEF University Advancement Program, who served as the programme’s lead facilitator. Through an immersive curriculum and interactive learning experience,
participants explored global best practices in university advancement while developing institution-specific strategies to foster long-term institutional sustainability and stakeholder engagement. Participants also engaged in collaborative learning, case studies, and practical exercises designed to prepare them to establish and strengthen advancement offices within their institutions.

The closing ceremony was attended by distinguished leaders from Nigeria’s higher education sector, including Wale Adeosun, Chairman of the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation; Claire Jemide, Executive Director of the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation and Chairman of the Technical Working Committee established by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Maruf Alausa, CON; Dr. Anne Okaomee, PhD, Executive Director of the NHEF University Advancement Program; and lead facilitator at the NHEF UAP and Dr. Adetola Salau, Special Adviser to the Minister of Education on STEMM and Corporate Sector
Engagement. 

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Claire Jemide, Executive Director of the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation and Chairman of the Technical Working Committee, highlighted the Foundation’s broader vision for transforming higher education in Nigeria.

“Today, NHEF’s work extends far beyond individual programs. We are building a stronger higher education ecosystem by developing talented scholars, empowering faculty, supporting healthcare professionals, strengthening university leadership,
and helping institutions build the capacity to thrive for generations to come.”

She noted that the National University Advancement Program represents a critical step in advancing this vision by equipping Federal Universities with the institutional advancement capabilities needed to diversify funding sources, strengthen alumni
engagement, cultivate strategic partnerships, and build resilient institutions that can deliver lasting impact for future generations of Nigerians.

The successful completion of the inaugural National University Advancement Program marks a significant milestone in the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s higher education ecosystem. By investing in
the capacity of university leaders and advancement professionals, the programme lays the foundation for stronger alumni engagement, enhanced strategic partnerships, increased philanthropic giving, and more effective resource
mobilization to support the long-term growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s Federal Universities.

The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation remains committed to working alongside the Federal Ministry of Education and university stakeholders to advance institutional excellence, strengthen university leadership, and build a more sustainable and globally competitive higher education system for Nigeria.