The Nigerian government has dismissed civil servants holding degrees from unaccredited institutions in Togo and Benin since 2017. This action comes after uncovering widespread certificate fraud. An investigation also led to the formation of a committee to investigate academic misconduct, with reports indicating that over 22,500 Nigerian degrees from these countries will be invalidated.
The Nigerian government has terminated the employment of civil servants with degrees from private institutions in Togo and Benin Republic, specifically affecting those who graduated since 2017. Segun Imohiosen, from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, confirmed this action to the press. This decision follows revelations that many institutions in these countries are unaccredited, with only eight recognized to offer degrees valid for Nigerian students.
The government’s stance was further informed by an investigation which uncovered a journalist obtaining a degree in two months, raising concerns about the legitimacy of certificates. In response, the authorities from Benin Republic and Togo have halted the accreditation of these degrees. Additionally, a Committee on Degree Certificate Milling has been formed to combat fraudulent academic practices.
Tahir Mamman, the former Minister of Education, reported that over 22,500 Nigerians hold questionable diplomas from these countries. The government has declared that these fraudulent credentials will be annulled as part of broader measures to protect Nigeria’s academic integrity. Mamman noted that many degree holders never actually attended classes but acquired their certificates through unscrupulous means.
The directive to dismiss affected civil servants came from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). While the total number of employees affected remains unknown, reports suggest that some MDAs, such as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), have started implementing these job terminations. So far, five NYSC employees have been dismissed under this directive, as confirmed by Caroline Embu, the NYSC Director of Information.
The Nigerian government’s decision to dismiss civil servants with degrees from unaccredited institutions in Togo and Benin is a significant step in combating academic fraud. With over 22,500 questionable diplomas identified, the move aims to safeguard Nigeria’s educational reputation. Agencies are already acting on this directive, indicating a rigorous approach to uphold academic standards within the civil service.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
