The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for O’Level examinations, despite the recent review of admission requirements into tertiary institutions.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government emphasized that the updated admission policy does not exempt any candidate from registering or sitting for the two core subjects.
The clarification, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, followed widespread misinterpretation of the new O’Level admission framework.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, explained that the reform was designed to enhance flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in the tertiary admission process—ensuring that capable students are not denied opportunities due to deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields of study.
“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 programmes,” Alausa said.
He added that the framework aligns with global best practices by allowing institutions to admit candidates into certain programmes where a credit in either subject may not be compulsory, but all students must still register and attempt both during their examinations.
The ministry clarified that the adjustment only applies to admission requirements, not to the study or examination of the subjects themselves.
“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 read.
The government further noted that the reform supports its broader vision for equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, while upholding educational integrity and quality.
The Ministry of Education also urged students, parents, and stakeholders to verify information through official communication channels and the ministry’s verified social media platforms to avoid misinformation.
This clarification follows earlier reports suggesting that students in the arts and humanities might no longer require Mathematics credits for university admission — a claim the ministry has now formally dismissed.
