The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory for all students at the O’Level level, despite recent adjustments to tertiary admission guidelines. The clarification came through a statement issued in Abuja by the Ministry of Education’s Director of Press and Public Relations, who addressed growing public confusion over the new policy.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, explained that while the government has introduced a more flexible admission framework to promote inclusivity, it does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for English and Mathematics.
He said the reform is designed to ensure that capable candidates are not denied entry into higher institutions due to deficiencies in non-core subjects, particularly in courses where credit in either English or Mathematics may not be mandatory for admission.
The minister emphasised that the change affects only admission criteria, not examination requirements, noting that English and Mathematics remain critical for communication, reasoning and lifelong learning. According to him, the federal government is focused on expanding academic pathways, encouraging diverse strengths, and supporting human capital development.
He urged students, parents and education stakeholders to rely on official communication channels to avoid misinformation, especially as the new policy continues to generate public debate.
For many young Nigerians, including those seeking vocational and entrepreneurial pathways, clarity on core subject requirements remains crucial to planning academic and career futures.
