Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria — Former presidential candidate and Labour Party chieftain, Peter Obi, has strongly criticized the Federal Ministry of Education’s decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject for admission into tertiary institutions, describing the policy as “a regrettable step backwards” in Nigeria’s pursuit of academic excellence and global competitiveness.
The clarification from the Ministry came after widespread public outcry following reports that both Mathematics and English Language were no longer compulsory for admission into higher institutions. The Ministry later explained that while the subjects remain mandatory in school certificate examinations, they may no longer be required for admission into some Arts-related programmes.
However, Obi, in a statement released on Sunday, faulted the rationale behind the policy, arguing that the move undermines the intellectual development of students and sends the wrong signal about the value of logical reasoning in education.
“If Mathematics remains compulsory in school certificate examinations but not for university admission, the effect is practically the same,” Obi stated. “Students who intend to pursue Arts in tertiary institutions will still not take the subject seriously, knowing they do not need it for admission.”
He emphasized that Mathematics is not just about numbers, but a discipline that strengthens logic, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are indispensable for success in any field.
“Whether one studies the Arts or Sciences, the ability to reason clearly and make sound judgments is indispensable — qualities that Mathematics uniquely nurtures,” he noted.
Obi expressed disappointment that such a policy would emerge at a time when the world is moving toward data-driven decision-making and innovation, stressing that deprioritizing Mathematics will only weaken Nigeria’s human capital in an increasingly knowledge-based global economy.
“At a time when the world is driven by science, technology, and data, it is disheartening — indeed, dirt to the ears — to hear of such retrogression,” he said. “Our education policy must aim to equip every child, regardless of discipline, with the skills and competencies relevant to the twenty-first century.”
He questioned the rationale behind the decision, asking whether it stemmed from a lack of qualified students or an attempt to make admissions easier at the expense of quality.
“Does it mean that our tertiary institutions lack enough students because of Mathematics? What, indeed, are the reasons?” he asked.
Obi therefore urged the Federal Government and relevant education authorities to reconsider the decision in the interest of national development and the intellectual growth of Nigerian students.
“Education should move forward, not backwards,” he concluded.
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