FG Suspends Accreditation Of Degree Certificates From Benin Republic, Togo, NANS React
The Federal Government has suspended the accreditation and evaluation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo.
This move followed a report detailing how a degree was acquired from a university in Benin Republic in under two months.
“This report lends credence to suspicions that some Nigerians deploy nefarious means and unconscionable methods to get a Degree with the end objective of getting graduate job opportunities for which they are not qualified,” the spokesperson for the Ministry of Education Augustina Obilor-Duru said in a Tuesday statement.
“The Federal Ministry of Education vehemently decries such acts and with effect from 2nd January 2024 is suspending evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from Benin and Togo Republics pending the outcome of an investigation that would involve the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria and the two countries, the ministries responsible for Education in the two countries as well the Department of State Security Services (DSSS), and the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC).”
The ministry is also calling on Nigerians to assist in providing information to help the committee as it seeks lasting solutions to prevent future occurrences.
“FME has been contending with the problem including illegal institutions located abroad or at home preying on unsuspecting, innocent Nigerians and some desperate Nigerians who deliberately patronize such outlets,” the statement added.
“Periodically, warnings have been issued by the Ministry and NUC against the resort to such institutions and in some instances, reports made to security agencies to clamp down on the perpetrators. The ministry will continue to review its strategy to plug any loopholes, processes, and procedures and deal decisively with any conniving officials.”
Reconsider Legitimate Nigerian Graduates From Benin Republic, Togo, NANS Tells FG
Meanwhile, the National Union of Nigerian Students (NANS) has asked the Federal Government to reassess the suspension placed on the accreditation and evaluation of degree certificates from neighbouring Benin Republic and Togo.
In a statement by NANS Senate President, Akinteye Afeez, the students’ body said the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of academic qualifications was commendable but urged the government to “carefully consider” the impact of the decision on legitimate students who have pursued their education in these countries.
NANS noted that many of the students have completed one, two, or three years of study, while others have successfully graduated and are eagerly awaiting the approval of their evaluation lists to participate in the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) program.
The body added that these students now find themselves in a state of uncertainty, facing potential delays in their academic and professional pursuits.
“We believe there is a need for reassessment. While the reported corruption is undoubtedly a cause for concern, it is crucial to distinguish between those involved in fraudulent activities and the vast majority of students who have pursued their education genuinely,” the statement partly read.
“Furthermore, Benin Republic and Togo host a significant number of Nigerian students seeking quality education. A blanket suspension can strain diplomatic and educational relations, impacting the opportunities available to Nigerian students in these neighbouring countries.
“A reconsideration of the suspension would alleviate the stress and uncertainties these students currently face.”
According to NANS suggests, the Federal Government should reverse the suspension, while maintaining a rigorous and transparent evaluation process.
