The Federal Government has introduced a new education policy requiring all teachers in Nigeria to obtain a license from the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) before being allowed to teach in classrooms. The directive, announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, is part of sweeping reforms aimed at raising teaching standards, enhancing professional development, and ensuring quality education delivery across the country.

According to the framework, the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) will handle in-service training and community-based professional development programmes, while TRCN will focus on teacher regulation and licensing. Unveiling the policy in Abuja, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, said the reform will guarantee competent and professional teachers in every Nigerian classroom. “No teacher will stand before a Nigerian classroom without TRCN registration and licensing. This guarantees competent and professional teaching for every child,” he declared.

The guidelines extend beyond licensing to cover teacher welfare, registration procedures, compliance monitoring, curriculum standards, and access to professional development opportunities. The Minister also warned that schools employing uncertified teachers risk losing accreditation, adding that beginning from 2027, both public and private schools will only be recognised as examination centres for WASSCE, NECO, NABTEB, and NBIAS if their teachers possess valid TRCN certification.

The Federal Government emphasized that the policy is designed to professionalise teaching, boost accountability, and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s education system. Officials noted that the reform aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises sustainable investments in human capital development to better prepare Nigerian children for future opportunities.