The Federal Ministry of Education, last Tuesday, announced the suspension of the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from the Republic of Benin and Togo.
The decision comes in the wake of an undercover investigation by a Nigerian newspaper, revealing the operation of a degree mill in Cotonou, a major city in Benin Republic.
The investigative report exposed how a reporter obtained a degree from Cotonou University in just six weeks and subsequently participated in the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
Following this revelation, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the regulatory agency for universities in Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to eradicating fake universities within the country.
Highlighting the ongoing efforts, Govima shared a list of universities currently under investigation by the NUC:
1. National University of Nigeria, Keffi, Nasarawa State
2. *North Central University, Otukpo, Benue State
3. MUhrist Alive Christian Seminary and University, Enugu
4. Richmond Open University, Arochukwu, Abia State
5.L76 West Coast University, Umuahia
6. Saint Clements University, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State
7. Volta University College, Aba, Abia State
8. Illegal Satellite Campuses of Ambrose Alli University
9. L.I.F.E Leadership University, Benin City, Edo State
The NUC, in a warning posted on its website, emphasized that certificates obtained from these institutions will not be recognized for purposes such as NYSC, employment, and further studies. It also conveyed that relevant law enforcement agencies have been informed for necessary action.
Recalling a statement from the former Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, in 2022, who highlighted the challenge posed by illegal universities to quality education in Nigeria, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to cracking down on such institutions. Currently, the NUC has uncovered 58 illegal universities operating within the country.
