In a major step for Nigeria’s education sector, the Federal Government has officially given Colleges of Education the power to award degree programmes independently, without the need for university affiliation.

The announcement was made during the National Education Summit in Abuja, where the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa – represented by the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmad – described the move as “a historic milestone in Nigeria’s educational development.”

For the first time in history, Colleges of Education can now run both the National Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor’s degree programmes side by side. This change follows the passage of the Federal Colleges of Education (Establishment) Act No. 43 of 2023, which gives the institutions full legislative and operational authority.

Prof. Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), called the reform “historic,” explaining that it would strengthen teacher education, create more opportunities for student-teachers, and keep talented educators within the system.

He also highlighted the benefits:

Colleges can now produce graduates with both NCE and B.Ed qualifications.

There will be a steady supply of qualified teachers across Nigeria.

Institutions can now fully use their manpower, infrastructure, and academic expertise without relying on universities.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education, Hon. Adamu Tanko, assured Nigerians that degrees awarded by Colleges of Education will hold the same value as those from conventional universities.

The Ministry of Education further pledged ongoing support with policies, resources, and technical guidance to ensure this reform is successfully implemented.

This marks a new dawn for Nigeria’s teacher training system – one that promises greater autonomy, wider access, and stronger recognition for Colleges of Education.