The Federal Ministry of Education has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for their O’Level examinations, despite the newly streamlined admission guidelines into tertiary institutions.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, and released on 18th October 2025, the Ministry clarified that the new policy does not exempt any candidate from registering and sitting for the two core subjects. Instead, it introduces a more inclusive and flexible approach to tertiary admission requirements.
According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), the reform was designed to promote flexibility, inclusiveness, and fairness in Nigeria’s education system, ensuring that capable students are not denied access to higher education due to deficiencies in subjects unrelated to their chosen fields of study.
Dr. Alausa explained that the adjustment aligns Nigeria’s education system with global best practices, allowing tertiary institutions to admit students into certain programmes where credit passes in English or Mathematics are not compulsory — while still requiring all candidates to register and sit for both subjects.
The Ministry stated that the new framework supports the Federal Government’s commitment to equity, inclusivity, and human capital development, broadening academic pathways and recognizing diverse learning strengths among students.
It further emphasized that English Language and Mathematics remain vital components of a sound educational foundation, serving as essential tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning. The reform, it noted, affects only the admission criteria for some courses, not the requirement to study or take these subjects.
Reiterating its dedication to maintaining high educational standards, the Ministry said it would continue to collaborate with examination councils, regulatory agencies, and tertiary institutions to ensure smooth implementation of the new policy.
The statement also urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels and verified social media pages of the Ministry for accurate and up-to-date information regarding educational policies and reforms.
The Ministry concluded by reaffirming its mission to build a credible, inclusive, and globally competitive education system anchored on integrity, excellence, and equal opportunity for all learners.