Why removing mathematics from Nigeria’s humanities endangers the future of thought

    Isedehi Aigbogun | YSOT | Oct 28, 2025    
Get Unlimited Access
Subscribe to unlock this article

Complete digital access to quality journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

Once registered, you can:

  • Read this article and many more, including access to epapers and research
  • Enjoy customize article feed/recommendation based on your profile
  • Enjoy access to Businessday exclusive events
  • One-Access accross Businessday platforms

Share this article
Shared
3128
times

On the 14th of October, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education announced that Mathematics would no longer be a compulsory requirement for admission into the nation’s tertiary institutions for students in the arts and humanities. According to the ministry, “The revised National Guidelines for Entry Requirements into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions are designed to remove barriers while maintaining academic standards.” The announcement has sparked wide debate and criticism across the country — from school principals and university professors to educationists and policy analysts alike. The decision is deeply concerning and may have serious implications for the academic and professional development of students admitted under its guideline. Is this another example of Nigeria’s policy change without carefully conducted research?

Continue reading your article with a
BusinessDay subscription





Already a subscriber?
Sign In
RECOMMENDED STORIES
support_agent