The Federal Government has reiterated that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students taking their ordinary level (O’Level) examinations, amid recent confusion surrounding education policy reforms.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 19, by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the government clarified that all students must continue to register and sit for both subjects. The statement emphasized that no new policy exempts candidates from these core requirements.
“The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that all students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations,” the statement said. “The new policy does not exempt any candidate from these core subjects but rather introduces a more inclusive and flexible approach to tertiary admission requirements.”
According to the ministry, the reform aims to promote fairness and inclusiveness in tertiary education by ensuring that capable students are not denied admission due to weaknesses in non-core subjects.
“The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, explained that the reform promotes fairness and inclusiveness by ensuring students are not excluded from tertiary education because of deficiencies in non-core subjects,” the statement added.
The ministry further explained that the revised O-Level admission guidelines are designed to modernize Nigeria’s education system and align it with global best practices. While credit passes in English or Mathematics may not be compulsory for admission into some specific programmes, all candidates are still required to sit for both subjects during their exams.
“This adjustment affects only admission criteria, not the requirement to take these subjects,” the statement clarified.
The ministry stressed that English and Mathematics remain essential tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning. The new policy supports the government’s vision for equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development.
“This reform aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, broadening academic pathways and recognizing diverse strengths among learners,” the statement noted.
Finally, the ministry urged students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for verified information and cautioned against misinformation regarding the new education policy.
