THE FAKE CERTIFICATE CONUNDRUM IN NIGERIA: A CALL FOR FAIRNESS AND TRANSPARENCY BY USAINI IDRIS GWARAM
The proliferation of fake certificates has become a pressing issue in Nigeria, affecting various sectors, including the civil service. While some individuals have exploited the system to obtain fake certificates, it is crucial to examine the role of institutions responsible for issuing evaluation letters and certificates, such as the Ministry of Education and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Their accountability and the systemic issues within the education and verification process must be addressed.
The recent focus on verifying certificates from institutions in Cotonou (Benin Republic) raises concerns, particularly for the northern region, where many civil servants in high positions reportedly hold such certificates. This focus could be perceived as a targeted move, potentially undermining the professional standing of individuals from the North. Nigeria’s geopolitical tensions, particularly between the northern and southern regions, are sensitive. If the policy enforcement disproportionately affects northern civil servants, it could be interpreted as a deliberate attempt to weaken the North’s representation in government, leading to heightened tensions and mistrust between regions.
While the crackdown on fake certificates is necessary, it is equally important to ensure that the process is fair and that the institutions responsible for verification are held to the highest standards of integrity. The focus should be on creating a system where the qualifications of all civil servants, regardless of their region or country of study, are thoroughly and fairly vetted.
Personally, I can attest to the importance of verification. Before my organization released me to study in Cotonou, they set up a committee to verify the school I would be attending. The committee wrote a letter to the Federal Ministry of Education and National Universities Commission about Esep Le Berger University, requesting confirmation of its accreditation and standards. My organization emphasized the importance of verification in preventing potential issues. By taking these steps, my organization demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the authenticity of my educational pursuits.
The key points my organization highlighted include:
- Verification of institutional accreditation
- Course validation
- Cross-checking with relevant authorities in both the host country (Benin Republic) and Nigeria (Federal Ministry of Education and National Universities Commission)
This diligence helped my organization avoid potential pitfalls and ensured a smooth educational journey. My organization’s proactive approach serves as a model for others to follow, promoting academic integrity and authenticity in the workplace.
However, the decision to focus on degrees from Cotonou and Togo raises questions about why these specific regions have been singled out. To address certificate fraud comprehensively, it is essential to ensure that the verification process covers all foreign countries and domestic institutions equally. Focusing on only a few countries may suggest bias or selective enforcement, undermining the credibility of the entire process.
About The Author
