The Federal Government has announced a new education policy mandating that all teachers in Nigerian schools must obtain certification from the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) before being allowed to teach. The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, is designed to raise teaching standards, strengthen professional development, and ensure quality education delivery nationwide.

Under the new framework, the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) will be responsible for in-service training and community-based professional development programmes, while TRCN will regulate and license teachers across the country. Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, who unveiled the policy in Abuja, emphasized that only certified professionals will be permitted in classrooms. “No teacher will stand before a Nigerian classroom without TRCN registration and licensing. This guarantees competent and professional teaching for every child,” Alausa declared.

The policy also introduces comprehensive guidelines covering teacher registration, welfare, compliance monitoring, curriculum standards, and access to professional development opportunities. The Minister warned that uncertified teachers and non-compliant schools risk severe sanctions, including loss of accreditation. Beginning in 2027, only schools staffed with TRCN-certified teachers will be approved as examination centres for WASSCE, NECO, NABTEB, and NBIAS.

According to the Federal Government, the reform seeks to professionalise teaching, enforce accountability, and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s education system. Officials stressed that the move aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises human capital development as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and global competitiveness.