The National Universities Commission has approved the commencement of the MBBS Medicine & Surgery programme for Akwa Ibom State University, effective the 2026/2027 academic session.
A statement by the Registrar of the Institution, Dr. Ebi Eno Ibanga, said the approval was contained in a letter from the commission, dated Sptember 3, 2026, after a resource verification visit. The statement thanked the Government of Akwa Ibom State and relevant stakeholders for their support for the establishment of the programme.
The approval of the MBBS programme takes the number of programmes approved by the NUC to 85, signaling a more than 100% increase in the number of programmes hosted by the university since September, 2025.
Reacting to the development, a medical professional, Dr. Nsikak Udo, said the approval by the NUC is timely and will boost the state’s quest towards enhancing medical infrastructure, research, and manpower development.
Dr. Udo appreciated the State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for prioritising and funding the accreditation of prestigious programmes in the institution, which he said will help the state advance its drive for sustainable healthcare delivery and improvement of the Doctor-to-Patience ratio of the state and nation at large.
In a recent chat with the media, Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Otoabasi Akpan, said the university is committed to providing more opportunities for Akwa Ibom people and Nigerians by extension, through the hosting of top-notch courses that are relevant in the 21st century, and honing the skills of students before graduation on comprehensive practical knowledge in thematic areas of their fields.
Professor Akpan eulogised the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for showing strong interest in the development of the institution, highlighting the role of the Government in securing approval for the commencement of courses such as Law, Pharmacy, Nursing Science, Public Health and a host of others, since he assumed office in August 2025.
He also appreciated the Commissioner for Health, Dr Emmanuel Ekem John for his contribution in the success of the NUC approval.
