The Federal Government has prohibited universities from using borrowed lecturers, equipment and facilities during accreditation exercises, warning that institutions found engaging in the practice will face sanctions.

The directive is aimed at promoting integrity and transparency in the accreditation process and ensuring that institutions are assessed based on their actual capacity and available resources.

Education authorities said some institutions have been known to temporarily source academic staff, laboratory equipment and other facilities from external sources to meet accreditation requirements.

According to the government, such practices undermine the credibility of the accreditation system and create a false impression of the quality and readiness of academic programmes.

The new policy requires universities to present only their permanent staff, existing infrastructure and operational facilities during accreditation assessments.

Officials stressed that accreditation is intended to evaluate the true state of academic programmes and determine whether institutions possess the resources needed to deliver quality education.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening standards in the tertiary education sector and ensuring that graduates receive training that meets national and international benchmarks.

Universities have been urged to invest in qualified personnel, research facilities, laboratories and other essential infrastructure rather than relying on temporary arrangements to secure accreditation approval.