President Bola Tinubu has directed relevant educational regulatory bodies to ramp up efforts in tackling the proliferation of illegal tertiary institutions across Nigeria. This move comes as part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity and quality of the nation’s education system.
Speaking through the Director of University Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Rakiya Ilyasu, during the 14th convocation ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja on Saturday, President Tinubu ordered the National Universities Commission (NUC), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and other regulatory agencies to take decisive action against institutions operating without accreditation or recognition.
“This administration remains resolute in ensuring that the quality of our education system is preserved,” said Tinubu, stressing that illegal institutions and “certificate millers” who exploit the system to undermine educational standards would not be tolerated.
The President’s directive underscores the need for tighter cooperation between key educational bodies, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the NUC, the NBTE, and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE). These agencies are tasked with improving the education sector’s efficiency, quality, and integrity.
Tinubu emphasized that tackling the menace of unrecognized and fraudulent institutions—both within Nigeria and abroad—was critical to protecting the future of the nation’s youth. He further warned the heads of these agencies to remain vigilant and committed to the government’s goal of rooting out quack institutions and ensuring that the education sector is free from corruption.
The convocation ceremony also celebrated the graduation of 51 inmates from various correctional facilities across Nigeria, who successfully completed their studies at NOUN. Of the graduates, 41 were undergraduates, and 10 earned postgraduate degrees. Additionally, honorary degrees were conferred on prominent figures, including Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank Group, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.
In his address, President Tinubu also urged NOUN to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s transition to a digitally skilled economy. He called for the university to expand its Open and Distance Learning model, particularly through full online learning, which he believes is vital for preparing the nation’s workforce for the future.
The President’s remarks are part of a broader government effort to enhance Nigeria’s education sector, ensuring it aligns with international standards and serves the needs of the nation’s growing population.
