FG Explains New Admission Policy, Reaffirms Maths As Core Academic Subject
The Federal Government has reaffirmed that Mathematics remains a compulsory subject for all students sitting for their O-Level examinations across the country.
This clarification was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Mrs. Boriowo Folashade, spokesperson of the Federal Ministry of Education, following public confusion over recent comments suggesting that students in the arts and humanities would no longer require a credit in Mathematics for tertiary admission.
Earlier in the week, Boriowo had announced that the government had reviewed the admission guidelines for candidates seeking entry into universities and other tertiary institutions, noting that some programmes in the humanities would no longer require a credit pass in Mathematics as a condition for admission.
The announcement generated widespread debate among education stakeholders, with some experts warning that exempting students from Mathematics could lower academic standards and discourage seriousness among learners.
However, in the latest statement, the Ministry clarified that while the new policy adjusts admission requirements for certain programmes, all candidates are still required to register and sit for Mathematics and English Language in their O-Level examinations.
“All students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations,” the statement read.
Boriowo explained that the policy adjustment only affects admission criteria for selected tertiary programmes, not the general O-Level subject requirements.
“This adjustment affects only admission criteria, not the requirement to take these subjects.
“There is no U-turn. It is a clarification on the streamlined admission requirements to expand access to tertiary education,” she said.
She added that the reform is part of the Federal Government’s broader vision to promote equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, while maintaining educational standards.
The Ministry also emphasised that English and Mathematics remain essential tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning, urging students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for verified policy updates.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
