The Federal Government has clarified that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for the O’Level examinations, despite the recently streamlined admission guidelines for tertiary institutions.
The clarification was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education following public reactions to the new policy. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, the reform does not exempt any candidate from sitting for English and Mathematics but rather seeks to make tertiary admission more flexible and inclusive.
Dr. Alausa explained that the review was introduced to ensure that qualified students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields of study.
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“The streamlining is designed to modernize Nigeria’s education system in line with global best practices,” the Minister said. “It ensures fairness and inclusivity while maintaining the integrity and quality of our education.”
Under the new framework, tertiary institutions may admit candidates into certain programmes where a credit in either English or Mathematics is not mandatory, but all students are still required to register and sit for both subjects in their Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE).
The Ministry said the reform reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to equity and human capital development, while recognizing diverse learning abilities among students.
It, however, reaffirmed the central importance of English and Mathematics as essential for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.
The Federal Ministry of Education urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely only on official communication channels for accurate information on policies and reforms.
“The Ministry remains committed to building a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system anchored on integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity,” the statement concluded.
