The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students sitting for the O’Level examinations.
This clarification was issued in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo.
According to Boriowo, the statement became necessary following public misconceptions surrounding the government’s recent decision to streamline admission requirements into tertiary institutions.
Quoting the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, Boriowo said the reform does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for English Language and Mathematics.
Dr. Alausa explained that the new policy introduces a more flexible and inclusive framework for tertiary admissions, designed to ensure that qualified students are not unfairly denied opportunities due to deficiencies in non-core subjects.
He noted that while the policy allows higher institutions to admit candidates into certain programmes where a credit pass in either English or Mathematics may not be compulsory, all candidates are still required to register and sit for both subjects.
“This reform supports the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, broadening academic pathways and recognising diverse strengths among learners,” Alausa stated.
The minister described the reform as a strategic step toward enhancing access and promoting fairness in the education system.
He further stressed that English and Mathematics remain essential for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning, adding that the adjustment affects only admission criteria—not the requirement to take the subjects.
Alausa also urged students, parents, and other education stakeholders to rely on official communication channels for verified updates to avoid falling for misinformation.