Nigerian Government Says English, Mathematics Still Mandatory At O’Level Registration

The Federal Government of Nigeria has clarified that English Language and Mathematics are still mandatory subjects for all students registering for their O’Level examinations

This is clarification is coming on the heels of the recent review by the government concerning admission requirements into tertiary institutions in the country.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education, clarifies that the newly reviewed admission policy does not give an exemption to any candidate from registering or sitting the two core subjects.(English Language and Mathematics).

The statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, says that the clarification has become necessary following misinterpretations of the new O’Level admission framework.

Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, explained that the reform was introduced to promote flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in tertiary education admissions, ensuring that capable students are not denied access due to deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen courses.
“The streamlining ensures that deserving students are not denied access to higher education due to credit deficiencies in subjects that are not directly relevant to their chosen fields of study,” Alausa stated.

According to the minister, the new framework aligns with global best practices and corrects imbalances in the previous admission system by allowing institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where credit passes in either subject are not compulsory. However, all students must still register and sit for both subjects

The ministry clarified that this adjustment affects only the admission criteria for specific programmes and does not alter the requirement to study or take these subjects.

“All students must continue to take both subjects as part of their Senior School Certificate Examinations, as they remain vital components of a sound educational foundation,” the statement partially read.
See also  NSW Adoption to Cut Logistics Cost in Nigeria by 30 Percent
The ministry stated that the policy supports the Federal Government’s broader goals of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development while upholding education quality and integrity.
It also urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on the ministry’s official communication channels and verified social media platforms for accurate updates on reforms and policies.