The Federal Government has officially launched the Dual Mandate Policy across all Federal Colleges of Education (FCOEs), allowing them to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor’s Degrees in Education.
This significant reform follows the signing of the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to a statement by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education, the new legislation empowers FCOEs to operate as dual-mode institutions, capable of producing more highly qualified teachers for Nigeria’s evolving educational landscape.
Speaking during the policy rollout in Abuja, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa described the initiative as a bold step towards transforming teacher training nationwide.
“This marks a major shift in our approach to teacher education,” the Minister said. “With the Dual Mandate, Federal Colleges of Education are now positioned to offer both NCE and bachelor’s degrees, increasing access and enhancing the quality of teaching across the country.”
Under the new law, any FCOE that meets the standards set by the National Universities Commission (NUC) is eligible to run degree programmes. The policy is inclusive, allowing both old and newly established colleges to participate, provided they satisfy the academic and infrastructural requirements.
Dr. Alausa noted that the policy addresses several longstanding issues in the education sector—such as dwindling enrolment, institutional relevance, and dependence on universities for degree issuance. He added that it also grants FCOEs greater autonomy in curriculum design and academic administration, enabling them to respond more effectively to current and future educational demands.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening teacher education, stating: “No country can develop beyond the capacity of its educators. This policy ensures our teachers are well-trained, well-equipped, and ready to deliver quality education.”
The implementation of the Dual Mandate Policy is expected to improve professional standards, attract more students to the teaching profession, and further Nigeria’s goal of educational advancement.
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