Nigerian Students Continue to Enrol in Togo, Benin Universities Despite FG Blacklist

One year after the Federal Government blacklisted degrees from several universities in Togo and the Benin Republic, Nigerian students are still travelling to those neighbouring countries to pursue higher education, a report shows.

At least 15,000 Nigerians are currently enrolled in institutions across Togo and the Benin Republic, according to the report, a trend education experts say reflects deep-rooted problems in Nigeria’s tertiary system. The government’s action — taken on grounds that some foreign degrees failed to meet acceptable academic standards — has led to the dismissal of civil servants found to hold blacklisted certificates, but has not halted student migration.

Students interviewed cited long-standing challenges at home as the main push factors. “I applied to Nigerian universities with a JAMB score well above the cut-off mark, yet I was not admitted. I also attempted JUPEB but fell short by just one point,” said Ihuoma, a 300-level Mass Communication student at École Supérieure de Management in Porto-Novo. “I became frustrated and had no choice but to explore options outside Nigeria.”

Joseph, who studies at ESM University in the Benin Republic, said ease of admission, lower costs and an uninterrupted academic calendar influenced his decision. “Unlike in Nigeria, where ASUU strikes can extend the duration of a four-year course indefinitely, I can complete my studies here on schedule,” he said.

The ban has left many students anxious about the future. Anuoluwapo and Sophia, both affected by the policy, voiced fears that years of study could be wasted if their certificates are not recognised. Gladys, a 200-level student, described the blanket measure as “concerning,” arguing that reputable institutions are being unfairly tarred with the same brush as degree mills. “The quality of education in some of these institutions is excellent. We have experienced lecturers and structured curricula,” she said.

While the government has maintained that only a limited number of foreign institutions are recognised, students and education stakeholders are calling for a more nuanced approach. They want authorities to distinguish between accredited universities and fraudulent providers, and to carry out institution-by-institution assessments rather than broad bans.

Experts recommend that Nigeria work with Togo and Benin authorities to establish a joint accreditation framework, and push for urgent reforms at home — including investment in infrastructure, clearer admission processes and measures to stabilise the academic calendar — to stem the outflow of students.