The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), has once again made history in Nigeria’s higher education landscape by securing full approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for four innovative and highly sought-after academic programmes. This development, which was officially confirmed on 8th September 2025, marks a significant milestone in FUHSO’s mission to become a leading centre of excellence in health sciences and allied disciplines.
The Approved Programmes
The newly approved academic programmes, effective retroactively from the 2024/2025 academic session, are:
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) – A professional doctoral degree designed to train pharmacists with advanced skills in clinical practice, drug development, and pharmaceutical research.
- Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) – A programme aimed at producing competent laboratory scientists capable of conducting critical diagnostic and investigative tests essential for patient care.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) – A degree that equips future nurses with modern knowledge in patient care, clinical practice, leadership, and health system management.
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Epidemiology (B.Sc.) – A cutting-edge programme that focuses on disease prevention, epidemiological research, and community health management.
These programmes are not just ordinary additions; they represent a strategic expansion of FUHSO’s academic offerings, positioning the institution as a hub for high-impact healthcare education in Nigeria and West Africa.
The NUC’s Endorsement and Why It Matters
The approval was granted after a resource verification exercise carried out by an NUC delegation on 30th August 2025. The panel, led by Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Girei, Director of Academic Planning at NUC, was highly impressed with FUHSO’s facilities and commitment to quality education.
According to the NUC Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, the university not only met but exceeded the Commission’s requirements, showcasing world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge laboratories, and a faculty well-prepared to deliver internationally competitive training.
NUC’s approval means that these programmes are fully recognized and accredited, allowing students to graduate with degrees that are valid both locally and globally. It also signals confidence in FUHSO’s capacity to deliver education that aligns with international best practices in health sciences.
The Strategic Importance of These Programmes
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D)
The Pharm.D programme is a bold step forward in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, particularly in drug safety, patient counselling, and clinical pharmacy services. As Nigeria battles with issues such as counterfeit drugs and poor access to specialized pharmacists, this programme will produce professionals who can provide advanced pharmaceutical care and improve treatment outcomes. - Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS)
In an era where accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment, the BMLS programme will ensure the training of skilled professionals who can carry out sophisticated laboratory tests. From cancer screening to infectious disease detection, medical laboratory scientists are the backbone of evidence-based medicine. - Nursing Science (BNSc)
Nurses form the largest group of healthcare providers worldwide, and in Nigeria, the demand for professional nurses has never been higher. FUHSO’s BNSc graduates will be equipped not only with clinical expertise but also with leadership and management skills, preparing them to take up roles in both hospitals and public health systems. - Public Health & Epidemiology (B.Sc.)
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of public health experts and epidemiologists in protecting communities from outbreaks. This programme will train future leaders in disease prevention, surveillance, and health policy—skills that are essential in tackling health challenges in Nigeria and beyond.
FUHSO’s Vision and Commitment
Speaking on the achievement, the Vice-Chancellor of FUHSO, Prof. Francis Aba Uba, described the approval as “a divine blessing and a collective victory.” He emphasized that FUHSO remains committed to expanding its academic horizon with innovative programmes that meet national needs and global standards.
The institution’s strategic vision goes beyond merely adding new programmes; it aims to transform FUHSO into a world-class health sciences university that can compete with the best globally while addressing local healthcare challenges.
What This Means for Students and Nigeria’s Education Sector
For prospective students, this development presents an incredible opportunity. They can now access globally competitive health sciences programmes right here in Nigeria, without the heavy financial burden of studying abroad.
For the Nigerian education sector, FUHSO’s achievement is proof that universities can rise to the challenge of innovation, quality assurance, and global competitiveness. It also means Nigeria is better positioned to produce the next generation of pharmacists, nurses, laboratory scientists, and public health experts—professionals who are critical to the country’s health system.
Looking Ahead
The approval of these four programmes is only the beginning. FUHSO is expected to continue expanding into other specialized fields in medicine and allied sciences. As the institution grows, it will not only enhance Nigeria’s human resource capacity in healthcare but also strengthen the country’s ability to tackle public health crises, improve clinical outcomes, and contribute to global medical research.
