The National Universities Commission (NUC) has intensified its efforts to combat the proliferation of fake certificates in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
Following the recent suspension of the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from the Republic of Benin and Togo by the Federal Ministry of Education, the NUC has released a list of universities within Nigeria that are currently under investigation for their involvement in the issuance of fraudulent certificates.
The investigative measures come in the wake of an undercover operation by a Nigerian newspaper, revealing a degree mill in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
The investigative reporter reportedly obtained a degree from Cotonou University within six weeks and participated in the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
The regulatory agency has highlighted the following universities as subjects of the probe:
- National University of Nigeria, Keffi, Nasarawa State
- North Central University, Otukpo, Benue State
- Christ Alive Christian Seminary and University, Enugu
- Richmond Open University, Arochukwu, Abia State
- West Coast University, Umuahia
- Saint Clements University, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State
- Volta University College, Aba, Abia State
- Illegal Satellite Campuses of Ambrose Alli University
- L.I.F.E Leadership University, Benin City, Edo State
The NUC, in a warning posted on its website, emphasized the risks associated with obtaining certificates from these institutions.
It stated, “Certificates obtained from these sources will not be recognized for the purposes of NYSC, employment, and further studies. The relevant law enforcement agencies have also been informed for their further necessary action.”
