The Federal Government has introduced a new policy requiring prospective NYSC participants to upload their thesis or project reports online before mobilisation. Announced on September 29, this measure aims to eliminate fake certificates and enhance academic integrity.
Approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the policy aligns with the National Policy for the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD). Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, issued the directive, referencing Sections 2 (4) (4) and 16(1)(C) of the NYSC Act.
Starting on October 6, students from all higher institutions must submit their academic outputs to the NERD platform. This verifies enrollment and ensures quality. The rule applies to public, private, military, and foreign schools, protecting intellectual property and encouraging rigorous supervision.
The policy will not affect current Corps members or those already mobilised. Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa, in a March 2025 statement, emphasised his role in upholding academic standards nationwide.
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NERD spokesperson Haula Galadima said the platform’s global visibility would push lecturers to ensure high-quality student work. “Supervisors won’t want their names tied to subpar projects,” she noted.
The policy introduces a reward system, approved by President Tinubu, allowing students and lecturers to earn from their uploaded works.
Institutions must establish local repositories and share data with agencies like the National Identity Management Commission via APIs. Each submission will include student details, supervisors, and department heads.
This reform strengthens trust in Nigerian qualifications, combats certificate fraud, and supports academic excellence.
