The Federal Government has warned parents, teachers, school proprietors, principals, invigilators and students involved in examination malpractice that they will face the consequences of their actions as it intensifies efforts to restore credibility to Nigeria’s public examination system.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) and other education stakeholders.
Alausa said the era of allowing dishonest candidates to gain an unfair advantage over students who prepared diligently for examinations must come to an end.
He noted that examination malpractice had become deeply entrenched in the education system, with its effects extending beyond individual candidates to the credibility and integrity of certificates issued by Nigerian institutions.
According to the minister, the Federal Government’s decision to strengthen examination administration is driven by President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to restoring standards, promoting accountability and repositioning the education sector.
Alausa stressed that the fight against examination malpractice must not be left to students alone, noting that adults who facilitate, encourage or ignore cheating are equally responsible for undermining the integrity of the examination system.
He urged parents, teachers, school owners, principals, invigilators and other stakeholders to create an environment that encourages genuine learning rather than shortcuts to academic success.
The minister further disclosed that the government was implementing measures to make public examinations more secure and ensure that grades awarded to candidates accurately reflect their knowledge and abilities.
He said the reforms were necessary to protect students who prepare honestly from being disadvantaged by candidates who obtain examination materials through illicit means.
