The Nigerian Federal Government is cracking down on employees with fake degree certificates from Benin and Togo, enforcing termination for those caught. Announced by Minister Tahir Mamman, this move aims to protect the integrity of Nigerian educational qualifications and address the issue of fraudulent degrees
The Nigerian Federal Government has declared that employees in both public and private sectors holding fake certificates from the Republics of Benin and Togo will face immediate termination. This decision was unveiled by Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, during a press conference in Abuja, marking his first year in office. The policy, endorsed by President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council (FEC), aims to address the proliferation of fake degrees and uphold the integrity of Nigerian educational qualifications.
Minister Mamman highlighted that around 21,684 individuals are suspected of using fake degrees from Benin Republic, and approximately 1,105 from Togo, obtained between 2019 and 2023. These degrees were issued by institutions not officially recognized by the respective countries, with only a few universities in each country being accredited. The Minister emphasized the unfair competition faced by graduates from legitimate Nigerian institutions who spent years earning their qualifications.
The Head of Service has been tasked with identifying and removing individuals with these fraudulent certificates from the public sector. The move has sparked a mixed reaction online, with many expressing frustration over wasted time and resources invested by genuine students. This crackdown is seen as a crucial step in maintaining the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system and ensuring fair employment practices.