The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has launched an investigation into allegations of certificate racketeering involving Nigerian polytechnics and blacklisted universities in the Republic of Benin.
The Punch had reported over the weekend that certain private polytechnics may be colluding to fraudulently mobilise graduates into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) using fabricated National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates.
NBTE, in a statement by its spokesperson, Fatima Abubakar, said it has initiated preliminary inquiries and formally contacted both the NYSC and Punch Newspaper to obtain relevant information that will aid a thorough investigation.
The Board emphasised that the integrity of Nigeria’s technical education system remains paramount and warned that any institution found culpable will face regulatory sanctions, including possible withdrawal of operational licenses and prosecution.
It also called on the public and stakeholders to remain calm and vigilant, urging them to report any suspicious activities involving Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
‘The NBTE wishes to categorically state that it does not condone, support, or tolerate any form of certificate racketeering or academic fraud.
‘We appreciate the Nigerian press, especially the recent cases of investigative journalism in the country, leading to cleaning up our system,’ the statement said.
The NBTE reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies to uphold the credibility of Nigeria’s polytechnic education, pledging to support a transparent restitution of the sector and ensure academic integrity at all levels.
The Board assured that it would take decisive action against any institution found to be undermining the standards of technical education in Nigeria.