FG Clarifies: Mathematics Still Compulsory for All O-Level Students Despite Admission Reforms
The Federal Government has reaffirmed that Mathematics remains a compulsory subject for all students sitting for the O-Level examinations, following days of public confusion over reports suggesting otherwise.
In a press statement obtained by PulseNets on Sunday, Boriowo Folashade, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education, clarified that all candidates must continue to register and sit for both Mathematics and English Language in their O-Level examinations, irrespective of their discipline or career path.
Earlier in the week, Boriowo had reportedly announced that students in the arts and humanities would no longer need a credit in Mathematics as a prerequisite for tertiary admission—an announcement that sparked widespread reactions among education stakeholders across Nigeria.
Several stakeholders had told PulseNets that the initial pronouncement risked lowering academic standards and could encourage laxity among students. Some even described it as “a policy misstep that could derail the foundation of holistic education.”
However, in the latest clarification, Boriowo explained that the new admission guidelines merely give tertiary institutions flexibility to admit candidates into specific programmes without demanding a credit pass in Mathematics or English—but not to exempt students from sitting for the subjects entirely.
“All students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations,” the statement emphasised.
She further clarified that the policy adjustment applies strictly to admission criteria, not the subject requirements in the examination itself.
According to her, the reform seeks to enhance inclusivity, equity, and human capital development—key priorities in the Federal Government’s education transformation agenda.
“English and Mathematics remain essential tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry also appealed to students, parents, and education stakeholders to verify all education policy updates through official government channels to avoid misinformation.
Also Read: Mathematics: NUC releases new curriculum for Nigerian universities (Full List)
When asked by reporters whether this clarification meant a policy reversal, Boriowo told PulseNets,
“No, this isn’t a U-turn. It’s simply a clarification of admission guidelines designed to widen access to higher education without compromising examination standards.”
