BREAKING: Tinubu Signs Law Empowering Colleges to Award Bachelor’s Degrees

Published on May 2, 2025

The Federal Government has officially rolled out the Dual Mandate Policy across all Federal Colleges of Education, following the enactment of the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023.

This legislation, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, empowers these colleges to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education.

According to Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education, this move marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s teacher education reform. Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa described the implementation as a bold and progressive step, saying, “The Dual Mandate Policy represents not just a reform but a revolution in teacher preparation — enabling FCOEs to offer both NCE and Bachelor’s degrees. This initiative empowers institutions, broadens access, and enhances the quality of classroom instruction across Nigeria.”

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The new policy allows all Federal Colleges of Education that meet the National Universities Commission standards to operate under the Dual Mandate. Dr. Alausa emphasized that offering degrees within these colleges will equip educators with higher competencies to meet the evolving demands of the education sector and expand access to higher education by providing an alternative route to earn Education degrees outside the traditional university system.

“The Dual Mandate addresses multiple challenges simultaneously, including curbing declining enrolment, preserving institutional relevance, and eliminating the need for university affiliations in the issuance of degrees,” the Minister added. The policy also grants greater autonomy to Federal Colleges of Education in curriculum development and implementation, enabling them to respond more swiftly to emerging trends and needs in the teaching profession.

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Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing education, stating, “No nation can rise above the quality of its teachers. This policy strengthens the foundation of our education system—ensuring that every teacher is trained, qualified, and prepared.” The inclusion of eligible Federal Colleges of Education in the Dual Mandate Programme is seen as a vital step toward advancing Nigeria’s educational development.

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