The Nigerian Federal Government announced the official rollout of the Dual Mandate Policy across all Federal Colleges of Education (FCOEs) following the enactment of the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023.
In a statement released by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education, the legislation signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu allows FCOEs to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education. This marks a significant step in the ongoing reform of Nigeria’s teacher education system.
At the policy launch in Abuja, Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa described the initiative as a “bold and progressive” reform, stating that it would revolutionize teacher preparation by broadening access to higher education and improving the quality of teaching nationwide.
Under the new Act, all FCOEs meeting National Universities Commission standards are eligible to implement the Dual Mandate. This policy aims to expand educational opportunities, provide an alternative pathway to higher education, and address challenges like declining enrollment and institutional relevance.
The policy also grants FCOEs greater autonomy in curriculum development, enabling them to adapt quickly to changes in the education sector. Dr. Alausa emphasized that the policy would strengthen Nigeria’s educational foundation by ensuring every teacher is trained, qualified, and prepared.
This move is a vital step toward advancing Nigeria’s educational goals and revitalizing teacher preparation across the country.
