The National Universities Commission (NUC) has identified at least 37 illegal universities operating in Nigeria.

Speaking on the certificate scandal in an interview, acting Secretary of the NUC, Chris Maiyaki, said the commission is working with stakeholders to clamp down on illegal institutions.

Maiyaki said the NUC maintains zero tolerance for shady practices and will continue to ensure due diligence in the system.

The NUC secretary disclosed that the scandal was more widespread amongst institutions urging vigilance.

Earlier, the Federal Government blocked eighteen foreign universities operating in Nigeria.

They include Houdegbe North American University campuses in Nigeria; University Business School London, operating anywhere in Nigeria; and University of Education, Winneba Ghana, operating anywhere in Nigeria.