The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to the Federal Government to revisit its decision to suspend the accreditation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo.
Expressing concern over the impact on legitimate students, NANS urged the government to assess the consequences on those who have diligently pursued their education in these countries.
In a statement released by its Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, NANS lamented that the suspension had created uncertainty for numerous students who have invested substantial time and resources in their education. The affected students, some having completed multiple years of study or graduated, now face potential delays in their academic and professional endeavors.
“Many have completed one, two, or three years of study, while others have successfully graduated and are eagerly awaiting the approval of their evaluation lists to participate in the National Youth Service Corps programme.
“While the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of academic qualifications is commendable, it is essential to carefully review the impact of this decision on legitimate students who have pursued their education in these countries.
“We believe there is a need for reassessment, while the reported corruption is undoubtedly a cause for concern, it is crucial to distinguish between those involved in fraudulent activities and the vast majority of students who have pursued their education genuinely.
“Also, suspending the accreditation of all certificates risks penalising genuine students who have worked hard and adhered to the academic regulations of their institutions.
“These students should not bear the consequences of the actions of a few. Furthermore, the Benin Republic and Togo host a significant number of Nigerian students seeking quality education.”
He added,
“Moreso, legitimate students are now caught in bureaucratic limbo, unsure about the fate of their education and future endeavours.
“A reconsideration of the suspension would alleviate the stress and uncertainties these students currently face. The apex student body suggests that the Federal Government reverse the suspension while maintaining a rigorous and transparent evaluation process.
“This would demonstrate the government’s commitment to justice and fairness, ensuring that those who have legitimately pursued education in Benin Republic and Togo are not unfairly penalised.
“Moreover, addressing the causes of corruption in the evaluation process, including stringent oversight, robust checks and balances, and accountability measures, will serve to strengthen the credibility of the accreditation system.”
Babatunde acknowledged the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of academic qualifications but emphasized the need for a careful review of the decision’s impact on genuine students. He urged a reassessment, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between those involved in fraudulent activities and the majority of students who pursued their education sincerely.
While recognizing reported corruption as a concern, NANS emphasized that suspending accreditation for all certificates could unfairly penalize genuine students. Babatunde argued against making these students bear the consequences of the actions of a few, emphasizing the presence of a significant number of Nigerian students seeking quality education in Benin Republic and Togo.
The NANS Senate President warned that the suspension could strain diplomatic and educational relations, impacting opportunities for Nigerian students in neighboring countries. He pointed out that legitimate students are caught in bureaucratic limbo, uncertain about the fate of their education and future endeavors.
In proposing a solution, Babatunde suggested a reversal of the suspension while maintaining a rigorous and transparent evaluation process. This, according to NANS, would demonstrate the government’s commitment to justice and fairness, ensuring that those who legitimately pursued education in Benin Republic and Togo are not unfairly penalized.
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Furthermore, NANS recommended addressing the root causes of corruption in the evaluation process. This includes implementing stringent oversight, robust checks and balances, and accountability measures to strengthen the credibility of the accreditation system.
The apex student body concluded by emphasizing the importance of considering the genuine efforts of students and maintaining a balance between ensuring academic integrity and protecting the interests of those who have committed to their education in the affected countries.