The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students sitting for O’Level examinations in Nigeria.
This clarification followed confusion sparked by reports suggesting that Mathematics had been made optional for students in the Arts and Humanities.
In a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education the government explained that while tertiary admission requirements are being reviewed for flexibility the decision does not affect the mandatory status of the two core subjects at the secondary school level.
“English Language and Mathematics are fundamental for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning. Students must still register and sit for both subjects during their O’Level examinations,” the Ministry said.
According to the statement the review only applies to university and college admission policies where some programmes may no longer require a credit pass in both subjects. However all candidates are still expected to attempt them in examinations conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) National Examinations Council (NECO) and other recognized bodies.
The government emphasized that the clarification became necessary to correct the misinformation circulating on social media which had led some students and parents to believe Mathematics was no longer compulsory.
Education experts have welcomed the move saying it helps maintain academic standards and ensures that all students acquire basic literacy and numeracy skills before proceeding to higher education.
Schools have been advised to continue prioritizing English and Mathematics in their teaching schedules while parents are urged to ensure their wards register for both subjects when enrolling for SSCE or NECO examinations.
With this reaffirmation the Ministry made it clear that English and Mathematics remain the foundation of secondary education in Nigeria even as the country works toward modernizing its curriculum and admission systems.
