The Federal Government has officially kicked off the implementation of bachelor’s degree programmes in 15 selected Federal Colleges of Education across the country. This follows the recent signing of a new law by President Bola Tinubu, granting these institutions the authority to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education.
At a sensitisation programme held in Abuja on Tuesday, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan—represented by Director of Educational Planning, Julie Uzor—explained that this dual-certification system aims to strengthen teacher training and attract more candidates to the education sector.
“This policy allows Colleges of Education to concurrently award the NCE and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education. As outlined in the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023, this dual mode enhances access, improves quality, and modernises teacher training,” he said.
The Federal Government has also approved the creation of additional colleges to further increase access and boost enrollment across the country. A review of the NCE Minimum Standards is also underway to ensure updated and high-quality curriculum delivery.
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Professor Paulinus Okwelle, confirmed that preparations are in full swing and implementation has already begun. He added that admissions into both NCE and degree programmes will start in the 2025–2026 academic session, as published by JAMB.
Okwelle emphasized that the amended Federal Colleges of Education Act of 2023 provides the legal backing for this major shift in teacher education and expressed optimism that the initiative will enhance teacher capacity in Nigeria.
“With proper pedagogical and content training, our teachers will be better equipped to manage modern classroom challenges,” he stated.
On staff welfare, Okwelle noted that efforts are ongoing to improve the motivation of lecturers, supported by the Federal Ministry of Education under directives from President Tinubu.
Also speaking, the Director of Colleges of Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Uche Uba, described the rollout as a major milestone. She confirmed that the approved colleges are already working with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure a smooth transition.
“There is a clear implementation guideline in place. The colleges are liaising with the NUC, and all are following the set conditions to make the process seamless,” she said.
The Students Forum Nigeria serves as the ultimate hub for Nigerian students, fostering academic growth, social engagement, and knowledge sharing.
