The Federal Government has said that Mathematics remains a compulsory subject for all students writing O’Level exams.
This was announced in a statement on Sunday by Boriowo Folashade, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education.
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Earlier in the week, Boriowo had said that students in the arts and humanities would no longer need to have a credit in Mathematics in their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) before gaining admission into higher institutions.
That announcement caused confusion and debate, with some teachers and education experts warning that the policy could reduce students’ seriousness and harm academic standards.
However, the ministry has now clarified that all students must still register and sit for both English Language and Mathematics in their O’Level exams.
“All students must continue to take English Language and Mathematics in their O’Level examinations,” the statement said.
It explained that while some institutions may accept candidates for certain courses even if they do not have a credit in one of the two subjects, every student must still write both subjects during their exams.
“This change only affects admission requirements, not the subjects students must take,” Boriowo added.
According to the ministry, the update supports the government’s goal of giving all students equal opportunities and promoting learning for national development.
“English and Mathematics remain important for communication, thinking, and lifelong learning,” the ministry said.
The ministry also advised students, parents, and schools to rely only on official government announcements for any education policy updates.
When asked if this was a reversal of the earlier policy, Boriowo said, “No, it’s not a U-turn — it’s just a clarification to make admission easier for more students.”