NANS to FG: Reconsider Suspension – “Genuine Students Should Not Be Allowed to Bear Consequences of the Actions of a Few”

Following the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the accreditation of degree certificates obtained from educational institutions in Benin Republic and Togo based on fraudulent degree acquisition, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has fervently appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider its recent decision.

This appeal comes in the wake of the suspension announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, citing concerns over the fraudulent acquisition of degrees. The government expressed distress over instances where Nigerians allegedly obtained degrees through illicit methods, thereby compromising the integrity of academic qualifications.

The suspension, prompted by an investigative report by the Daily Nigerian Newspaper, remains in effect pending an investigation involving multiple ministries and security agencies of both Nigeria and the affected countries.

However, NANS, through its Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, has raised concerns about the impact of this suspension on legitimate students who legitimately pursued their education in these countries. 

Noting that the affected students now find themselves in a state of uncertainty and facing potential academic and professional pursuit delays, he added, “Many 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 NYSC program.

“While the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of academic qualifications is commendable, it is essential to carefully review the impact of this decision on legitimate students who have pursued their education in these countries.

While acknowledging the government’s efforts to curb fraudulent activities, NANS urged the ministry to reconsider its blanket suspension, saying, “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.”

Moreover, NANS pointed out that the suspension of accreditation for all certificates could unfairly punish dedicated students who have diligently followed their institutions’ academic rules. He further appealed that these students should not bear the consequences of the actions of a few, stressing that a reconsideration of the suspension would alleviate the stress and uncertainties the students currently face.

Ending his statement, Babatunde recommended that “addressing the  causes of corruption in the evaluation process, including stringent oversight, robust checks and balances, and accountability measures, will serve to strengthen the credibility of the accreditation system.”

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