The attention of the Federal Ministry of Education has been drawn to a message circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that the Federal Government and the National Assembly are considering a move to scrap the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS).
A statement signed by Boriowo Folasade Director, Press and Public Relations of ministry said the Ministry wishes to categorically state that the claim is false, misleading, and entirely unfounded.
It said for the avoidance of doubt, the ministry has not initiated any bill before the National Assembly seeking the abolition of NBAIS, nor has the Federal Ministry of Education proposed, initiated, endorsed, or supported any policy aimed at scrapping the Board or undermining its statutory mandate.
According to the statement, the Ministry is concerned by the circulation of such unverified information, which falsely portrays the existence of a government-backed effort against NBAIS and is capable of creating unnecessary anxiety, misinformation, and apprehension among students, parents, educators, religious organisations, and other stakeholders.
NBAIS remains a duly recognised examination and certification body operating within the framework of Nigeria’s education system. The Federal Government continues to support all legally established educational institutions and examination bodies in accordance with extant laws, national education policies, and the principles of inclusiveness, equity, and equal opportunity.
The Ministry therefore urges members of the public to disregard the publication in its entirety and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of misleading citizens or undermining public confidence in government institutions.
Stakeholders are encouraged to rely exclusively on official communications from the Federal Ministry of Education and other authorised government channels for accurate information regarding education policies, programmes, and reforms.
The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to promoting quality education, national cohesion, and constructive engagement with all stakeholders in advancing the nation’s educational objectives.