Education: Minister clarifies English, Mathematics are compulsory subjects for O’Level students

*The Federal Government of Nigeria restates English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students at the O’Level in secondary education in the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Government of Nigeria has restated that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students at the O’Level in secondary education.

Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, made this clarification in a statement issued Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Abuja, FCT.

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Boriowo stated this clarification has become necessary, following misconceptions surrounding the recently announced streamlining of admission requirements into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The statement also noted Dr. Tunji Alausa, Honourable Minister for Education, stressed that the reform in the education sector does not exempt any student from registering, or sitting for English and Mathematics during their O’Level examinations.

Alausa said the new policy introduced a more inclusive and flexible framework for tertiary admission.

He stated this is aimed at ensuring that capable students are not unfairly denied entry into higher institutions of learning due to deficiencies in non-core subjects.

The Minister further explained: “It allows institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where credit passes in either English or Mathematics may not be compulsory, while still mandating that all students register and sit for both subjects.

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“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.”

He equally described the policy decision as a step towards realising the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development.

Alausa, therefore, urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely on only official communication channels for verified policy updates to avoid misinformation in the public space.

He asserted: “English and Mathematics remain vital tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.

“The adjustment affects only the admission criteria, not the requirement to take these subjects.”

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