Ex-NUC Chief Calls for Proactive Measures in Uncovering Fake Degrees

• Dr. Suleiman Ramon Yusuf urges NUC to proactively scrutinize degree programs from Francophone countries to prevent accreditation of questionable degrees
• Emphasizing the lack of quality assurance agencies, Yusuf calls for NUC’s active role in investigating and exposing fraudulent degree programs

Dr Suleiman Ramon Yusuf, former executive secretary of the National University Commission (NUC), has advocated for proactive measures from the commission in scrutinizing degree programs, particularly those originating from Francophone countries.

Yusuf’s call comes in the wake of the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the accreditation of degrees from Benin Republic and Togo, following an exposé by Daily Nigerian revealing the swift acquisition of a first degree in a university in Benin Republic.

During an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Yusuf emphasized the need for the NUC to move beyond mere pronouncements and actively investigate the authenticity of degree programs, especially in Francophone countries. He highlighted the lack of national quality assurance agencies in many of these countries, underscoring the urgency for a thorough examination.

Commending the swift response by the Minister of Education in suspending the accreditation of questionable degrees, Yusuf stressed the recurring nature of such issues and the necessity for a more comprehensive approach. He drew attention to the impact of dubious degrees on Nigeria’s educational landscape, citing their role in hindering the country’s participation in programs like the European Erasmus initiative.

Yusuf asserted that the NUC must play an active role in investigations to unveil the prevalence of fraudulent degree programs, stating, “You can’t investigate such a matter without the involvement of NUC. I would like to suggest that NUC should be active in this investigation because these degree mills are flourishing.”

The ex-NUC chief’s recommendation underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure the integrity of academic qualifications and maintain the credibility of the educational system.