In a bid to curb fraudulent practices in obtaining degrees, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced the suspension of accreditation for degree certificates obtained from Benin Republic and Togo. The decision comes in response to concerns over Nigerians engaging in dubious activities to secure degrees and subsequently employment opportunities for which they are unqualified.
The government expressed its dismay over the exploitation of unscrupulous means to obtain degrees, emphasizing the need to address this issue. The decision to suspend accreditation is effective from January 2, 2024, pending the outcome of an investigation involving the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Education of Nigeria, the two countries in question, and the Department of State Security Services and the National Youth Service Corps.
The statement from the Federal Ministry of Education urged the general public to support its efforts, provide useful information, and demonstrate understanding as the investigation unfolds. The Ministry is committed to uncovering the truth and implementing lasting solutions to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
Internally, the Ministry has initiated administrative processes to determine the culpability of its staff, with applicable Public Service Rules to be applied accordingly. The challenge of degree mills, institutions operating outside regulatory control, is acknowledged as a global issue. The Ministry has previously issued warnings against patronizing such institutions and will continue to review its strategies to prevent loopholes and take decisive actions against any complicit officials.
This move by the government underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of educational qualifications and ensuring that individuals are qualified for the job opportunities they seek. It aligns with efforts to combat the proliferation of fake degrees and certificates, as highlighted by the National Youth Service Corps in 2020 and former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed.
