The Federal Government has taken a decisive step in response to an investigative report by an online newspaper, revealing fraudulent practices in the accreditation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo. The government, expressing concern over the use of deceptive means to obtain degrees, announced the suspension of the evaluation and accreditation of certificates from these neighboring countries.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Augustina Obilor-Duru, representing the Director of Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Education, the government emphasized the need to address the issue of individuals resorting to unethical methods to secure degrees for job opportunities beyond their qualifications.
The suspension will endure until the completion of a comprehensive investigation involving the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Education in Nigeria, as well as collaboration with the relevant authorities in Benin Republic and Togo. The Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) are also part of this joint effort.
The Federal Ministry of Education called upon the public to support their initiatives, urging cooperation and the provision of useful information to assist in resolving the matter effectively and preventing its recurrence.
The official statement stated, "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." This suspension reflects the gravity of the situation and underscores the government's commitment to addressing the underlying issues.
Moreover, the Ministry has initiated internal administrative processes to ascertain the involvement of its staff in the accreditation irregularities. Applicable Public Service Rules will be applied based on the outcomes of these internal investigations.
Highlighting the global challenge of degree mills and fraudulent institutions, the Ministry acknowledged its ongoing efforts to combat such issues. Regular warnings have been issued, and reports have been submitted to security agencies to take action against those operating illegal institutions, both within and outside Nigeria.
The Ministry emphasized its commitment to reviewing and enhancing its strategies to eliminate loopholes and deal decisively with any officials found complicit in fraudulent practices. The suspension serves as a proactive measure to ensure the integrity of the accreditation process and protect the educational qualifications of Nigerian citizens.
