Nigeria Moves to End Fake Degrees, Orders Schools to Verify Credentials

The Federal Government has announced plans to commence a nationwide enforcement of academic credential verification under the National Education Repository and Databank (NERD) from October 6, 2025.

According to a circular issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, all ministries, departments, agencies, and higher institutions across the country must subject current and prospective staff credentials to checks via the National Credential Verification Service (NCVS).

Akume stressed that no appointment would be confirmed without clearance from NCVS, which affirms the authenticity of each academic qualification. Each verified certificate will carry a National Credential Number and unique security codes.

He explained that the reform replaces the reliance on individual institutions to validate certificates, embedding a national quality assurance mechanism insulated from compromise. “Effective from October 6, 2025, every credential presented anywhere in Nigeria must be verifiable and traceable,” Akume said.

The policy draws its authority from Section 10(1) of the Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act, 1985, with NERD as the enforcement body.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a systemic safeguard against fake degrees, fraudulent diplomas, and bogus honours, adding that it enhances the integrity of Nigeria’s education system and strengthens global competitiveness.

Haula Galadima, Executive Director of Communication and Cybersecurity for NERD, confirmed the agency is ready for full-scale deployment. She urged government agencies, schools, and private sector organisations to enrol designated NERD focal persons and digitisation officers via the agency’s portal.

She further disclosed that NERD will also oversee the National School Number (NSN), National Credential Number (NCN), and National Document Number, while maintaining a national database of resource persons for instant verification of genuine honours.

The NERD Governing Council, chaired by the Minister of Education, comprises the leadership of NUC, NBTE, NCCE, the National Library, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, as well as committees of vice chancellors, rectors, and provosts nationwide.

The government says the move will protect national security, enhance data consistency, and safeguard the prestige of Nigeria’s education system.