President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed key education agencies — including the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) — to take decisive action against illegal universities and other unauthorized tertiary institutions across the country.
The President emphasized that protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s education system is a top priority and warned that the activities of “certificate mills” must be brought to a permanent end.
He gave the directive on Saturday at the 14th Convocation Ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja. At the event, two prominent Nigerians — Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, and Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives — were awarded honorary doctorate degrees.
Dr. Adesina received a Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.), while Hon. Abbas was conferred with a Doctorate in Business Administration (D.B.A.).
The convocation also marked a special milestone as 51 inmates from correctional centres nationwide graduated — 41 undergraduates and 10 postgraduates — showcasing NOUN’s commitment to inclusive education.
Represented by Hajiya Rakiya Gambo Ilyasu, Director of University Education, President Tinubu charged tertiary institutions to implement bold, innovative strategies that prepare students not just academically, but with digital and soft skills needed in today’s global economy.
He highlighted the growing shift toward knowledge-based economies worldwide and said Nigeria must prioritize innovation, technology, and digital learning to remain competitive.
“As a government, we are committed to integrating all educational agencies to eliminate fake institutions and certificate forgery,” the President said. “Bodies like NYSC, JAMB, NUC, NBTE, and NCCE are working together to uphold quality, and I charge their leaders to remain steadfast.”
He also challenged NOUN to lead the way in digital education, urging the university to fully transition to online learning by leveraging its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) model.
“NOUN must embrace cutting-edge digital tools to expand access, enhance flexibility, and raise the overall quality of education,” he added.
President Tinubu affirmed that the government, through TETFund, is already investing in infrastructure — including fiber optic installations — to ensure fast, reliable internet at NOUN study centres across all regions.
In his remarks, NOUN Vice Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters, revealed that 17,420 students graduated this year, including 10,967 undergraduates and 6,413 postgraduates. Among the undergraduates, 16 earned First Class honors, while over 1,400 graduated with Second Class Upper.
Professor Peters also praised the university’s steady growth — from just over 1,200 students in 2003 to more than 133,000 active learners today, spread across 120 study centres nationwide, including correctional facilities.
“Our vision is to provide flexible, affordable, and accessible education for all, with a strong focus on equity and inclusion,” he said. “To date, 139 inmates have benefited from NOUN’s scholarship scheme.”
He urged the graduating students to carry their education with pride and purpose. “Your degree is not just a personal milestone,” he said. “It’s a call to use your knowledge to make a positive impact on your community and the world.”
