Nigerian govt suspends degree certificates from Uganda, other countries

Summary:

• The Bola Tinubu-led federal government plans to extend the suspension of academic accreditation beyond Benin and Togo to countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Niger Republic, following an undercover journalist’s report exposing fraudulent practices in acquiring degrees.

The federal government, led by Bola Tinubu, has announced its intention to suspend the accreditation of academic results originating from countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and Niger Republic. This decision follows the prior acceptance and accreditation of results from Benin and Togo, as revealed by an undercover journalist’s recent report.

Education Minister Tahir Mamman, speaking on ChannelsTV, emphasized that the government’s scrutiny would not be limited to Benin and Togo alone. He stated, “We will extend the investigation to countries like Uganda, Kenya, and even Niger, where similar institutions have been established.”

The minister emphasized that the suspension of certificates would not be confined to Togo and Benin Republic, adding, “We will broaden the suspension to include other countries where such institutions are in operation.”

Previously, an undercover journalist exposed the expedited acquisition of a degree from a university in Benin Republic within two months, leading to deployment for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). In response, the federal government promptly suspended the accreditation of certificates from the two francophone West African nations and initiated a three-month investigation.

Minister Mamman expressed stern views, categorizing students who engage with such institutions as criminals rather than victims. He asserted, “I have no sympathy for such individuals. Instead, they are integral to the criminal network and should be subject to arrest.”