In a swift response to a revealing investigative report published on December 30, 2023, by a Nigerian investigative journalist, the Federal Ministry of Education has taken a decisive action against the suspected influx of degrees from Benin and Togo Republics.
The report titled: “UNDERCOVER: How Daily Nigerian Reporter Bagged Cotonou Varsity Degree in six Weeks, Participated in NYSC Scheme,” highlighted the alleged use of fraudulent methods by Nigerians to obtain degrees, compromising the integrity of the educational system.
The ministry emphasized its need to take immediate action against what it describes as education fraud.
The investigation brought to light suspicions that certain Nigerians are resorting to dubious means to obtain degrees, with the ultimate goal of securing employment positions for which they lack qualifications.
The education ministry said it strongly condemns such practices, and effective from today, January 2, 2024, has suspended the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from institutions in Benin and Togo Republics.
A statement signed by Mrs. Augustine Obilor-Duru, Director, Press and Public Relations, on January 2, 2024, says the suspension will endure until the conclusion of a thorough investigation, which will involve collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, the education ministries of implicated countries, as well as Department of State Security Services (DSS), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The ministry urges the public to support these efforts, providing valuable information to assist the committee in finding lasting solutions and preventing further occurrences.
She noted that the ministry has already initiated administrative processes to ascertain the culpability of its staff, with applicable Public Service Rules to be applied accordingly.
The issue of degree mills, institutions operating outside regulatory control, is a global problem, and the Federal Ministry of Education has been actively combating such challenges.
The ministry reassures Nigerians and the general public that it is implementing measures to sanitize the education sector, including a renewed focus on inclusivity, in alignment with the current government’s directives and focus.
Adding that the ministry is committed to collaborating with stakeholders, the statement said, it will include civil society organizations to consistently enhance the Nigerian education system.
As the ministry addresses these issues, it values the understanding and patience of the public, emphasizing that it requires every Nigerian’s collective effort to strengthen the education sector.
