The Federal Ministry of Education has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for O’Level examinations, clarifying recent misconceptions surrounding the streamlined admission requirements for tertiary institutions.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, the Ministry emphasized that the new policy does not exempt any candidate from registering or sitting for the two core subjects. Instead, it introduces a more flexible and inclusive approach to tertiary admission requirements.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), explained that the reform was designed to promote inclusiveness, fairness, and flexibility in university admissions across Nigeria. According to him, the streamlining ensures that capable students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields of study.
“The new framework allows tertiary institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where credit passes in either English or Mathematics are not compulsory,” the Minister said. “However, all students must still register and sit for both subjects in their O’Level examinations.”
The Ministry noted that the adjustment affects only the admission criteria for certain programmes, not the requirement to study or sit for English and Mathematics, which remain vital for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.
It further assured the public of its commitment to maintaining high educational standards while promoting equity and inclusion, pledging continued collaboration with regulatory bodies, examination councils, and institutions to ensure smooth implementation of the revised guidelines.
The Ministry also urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels and verified social media platforms of the Federal Ministry of Education for accurate updates on education policies and reforms.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its mission to build a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system anchored on integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity for all learners,” the statement concluded.
