The Federal Government has officially commenced the implementation of the Dual Mandate Policy across all Federal Colleges of Education (FCOEs), following the enactment of the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023.
This move allows FCOEs to simultaneously award the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education.
According to a statement issued by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education, the policy was signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and represents a major advancement in the nation’s efforts to reform teacher education.
Speaking at the policy launch in Abuja, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa described the initiative as a transformative step. “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.”
Under the new law, all FCOEs that meet the National Universities Commission’s standards are eligible to operate under the Dual Mandate, regardless of when the institution was established. This inclusivity aims to ensure widespread participation once the set requirements are fulfilled.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that enabling FCOEs to offer degree programs independently improves teacher quality and provides broader access to higher education, offering alternatives to traditional university paths. The initiative also seeks to address multiple systemic issues such as low enrolment, relevance of institutions, and overdependence on universities for degree issuance.
Additionally, the Dual Mandate grants FCOEs more autonomy in designing and implementing their curricula. This flexibility allows them to adapt quickly to changes in educational trends and the needs of the teaching profession.
Reiterating the importance of the policy, the Minister said, “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 FCOEs in the Dual Mandate programme is seen as a pivotal move in reshaping Nigeria’s educational landscape.
What you should know
The Dual Mandate Policy empowers Federal Colleges of Education in Nigeria to offer both NCE and Bachelor’s degrees, reducing reliance on universities and strengthening teacher education through autonomy and broader access.
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