A recent investigation has drawn attention to a disturbing trend involving certain blacklisted universities in the Benin Republic allegedly working in collaboration with private polytechnics in Nigeria to facilitate the entry of unqualified graduates into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This developing story has significant implications not just for Nigerian educational integrity but also for the credibility of youth service programs relied upon across West Africa.
Sources close to the matter claim that these institutions secure Higher National Diplomas (HND) and National Diplomas (ND) for their students by partnering with private polytechnics in Nigeria. This arrangement enables graduates, who would otherwise be disqualified due to accreditation issues, to gain legitimate-looking documentation and become eligible for compulsory national service.
It has been reported that students are made to pay hefty fees—up to ₦400,000—to obtain these certificates. The majority of these transactions are said to take place through private polytechnics scattered around Nigeria’s South-West and South-East zones, areas previously noted for the density of tertiary institutions, both genuine and otherwise.
FG’s Earlier Suspension
Back in early 2024, the Nigerian federal government took a stern stand by suspending the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from both the Benin Republic and Togo. This move came in the aftermath of a notable Daily Nigerian investigation, which revealed that an undercover journalist was able to secure a university degree in merely six weeks and was subsequently able to participate in the NYSC program.
This sweeping suspension affected more than 45 universities, forcing some of them, according to various sources, to seek new, creative ways to get their Nigerian graduates into NYSC. Reportedly, private polytechnics became the latest vehicle for such schemes, raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the enforcement of educational standards in the region.
Graduates Reveal Inside Operations
Firsthand accounts from students shine a light on the elaborate process. Seun, a student from Esfam-Benin University in Porto Novo, explained that his university routinely sends transcripts to a Nigerian polytechnic for further “processing.” This act, he suggests, is a gateway to NYSC eligibility, even though the certificate’s origins are questionable.
A number of such graduates reportedly find themselves at the stage where only their formal mobilization into the NYSC remains.
“Our certificates and names have already been done with the polytechnic. With money, you can purchase a Benin Republic certificate, then go to a Nigerian polytechnic, and obtain a new certificate which enables you to proceed to NYSC,” he said.
A different graduate, who preferred to remain anonymous, said that after the government ban took effect, a senior staff member from his Benin Republic university introduced the so-called “package.”
He went further to allege that payments are managed via trusted intermediaries who coordinate with insiders at Nigerian institutions and, in some cases, even the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). This layered network reportedly makes the process both difficult to track and lucrative for those involved.
Investigation: Polytechnics Used as Cover
According to reportage from Punch, a graduate named Isa shared how he managed to obtain both ND and HND certificates through a private polytechnic based in Abia State. He is currently awaiting his NYSC clearance.
He added further details about the scheme, highlighting the ease with which the process can be completed for those willing to pay the price.
“A private polytechnic in Abia State was arranged for us. The registrar said our names had been submitted to NYSC. We’ll be going with the next batch. This is not a scam, it’s working.”
An administrator from Porto Novo, with knowledge of the scheme, walked through the operational details, confirming the existence of these underhanded collaborations.
“After obtaining the certificate from Benin Republic, we wait for the polytechnic to include the students’ names in their senate list. Once payment is made, transcripts are sent to the polytechnic, and the students graduate as theirs.”
High-Level Connivance and Falsified Records
Documents reportedly obtained during the investigation reveal the extent of the fraud, including cases where fictitious matriculation numbers and artificially inflated cumulative grade point averages (CGPAs) were assigned to graduates from the Benin Republic. These doctored records are then passed off as legitimate, enabling successful enlistment into the NYSC.
Source: Twitter
One woman, Wunmi, shared that she paid as much as ₦500,000 to secure NYSC mobilization for her brother through a private polytechnic located in Ekiti State—a revelation that underscores just how entrenched the scheme has become.
“They assured me there was nothing to worry about. Many from the same school had followed this route and were already serving,” she said.
Denials from Institutions and Government
Officials at Esfam-Benin University, represented by Femi Simon, have publicly denied involvement in any such illicit operations.
“We have never mobilised our students from another school. We are waiting for the Nigerian government’s final verdict.”
When contacted, the NYSC’s acting Director of Press and Public Relations, Carol Embu, maintained that the corps is unaware of these fraudulent practices and continues to work to uphold the integrity of its recruitment process.
“Foreign graduates are cleared by the Ministry of Education. All foreign graduates pass through them,” she said.
Similarly, Folashade Omoboriowo, a representative from the Ministry of Education, refuted the allegations, arguing that robust computerized verification procedures theoretically make such fraud impossible.
The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) is also reported to have denied knowledge of any such occurrences.
“If there’s evidence, let them bring it up, please.”.
Dr. Usman Tunga, Chairman of the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology, echoed this stance while also calling for vigilance.
“If such a fraud is detected, it will be reported to the relevant authorities.”
Cross-Border Issues: Benin Republic Shuts Land Borders
Adding another dimension to growing regional tensions, the Benin Republic government has recently closed several of its land borders with Nigeria. Observers say this decision is aimed at curbing the surreptitious export of locally grown agricultural goods such as soya beans, cashew nuts, maize, and guinea corn, which have significant market demand in Nigeria.
According to reports, Benin Republic Customs have cordoned off not only official checkpoints but also informal routes—including bush paths frequently used by farmers and traders to move produce into Nigerian territories. Some of these affected communities are adjacent to Kwara State, heightening the direct impact for cross-border households and local businesses.
Why This Matters: Implications for Nigeria, West Africa, and Beyond
The revelations about illegal certification schemes raise several troubling issues for Nigeria’s education sector and broader society. Authenticated diplomas and certificates are fundamental requirements for public trust in the workforce, most especially when linked to programs like NYSC, which functions as a rite of passage for young Nigerian graduates. When the integrity of this process is compromised, the consequences resonate not just for job seekers, but also for employers, professional bodies, and government agencies.
Furthermore, the issue isn’t limited to Nigeria. Ghana, Togo, and other West African countries, many of which share porous borders and similar education systems, are watching closely to see how Nigerian authorities address the problem. Regional collaboration may be necessary to implement stronger verification procedures, track fraudulent documentation, and foster lasting reforms.
The Legal Landscape: What Does Nigerian Law Say?
Legally, providing or using fraudulent educational credentials is a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Offenders—whether individuals, intermediaries, or complicit officials—can face prosecution, dismissal, or loss of professional licenses. However, enforcement remains a challenge due to the sophisticated nature of some schemes and alleged collusion by insiders. Education experts frequently call for enhanced digital verification, stricter monitoring of privately-owned tertiary institutions, and more stringent cross-border information sharing.
Local Observers Share Their Views
According to Lagos-based education analyst Temitayo Adekunle, “What we’re seeing is a combination of systemic loopholes, desperation from students and parents, and, sadly, a profitable network for those willing to bend the rules. Until we have better oversight, these cases will continue to emerge.”
Several students and recent graduates interviewed in Lagos and Ibadan expressed frustration, as the actions of a few cast doubt over the achievements of many who adhere to due process. “This puts legitimate graduates at a disadvantage, both locally and when seeking opportunities abroad,” remarked Dayo, a recent graduate from a federal university.
Regional and Global Context
While issues of certificate fraud are not unique to Nigeria, the scale and sophistication observed in this case raise alarms for international stakeholders, especially as many Nigerian graduates aspire to pursue further studies or professional careers overseas. Countries like Kenya and South Africa have also grappled with similar scandals in the past, prompting regional dialogues on the need for harmonized standards and background checks.
Conclusion: Building Trust in African Education Systems
Maintaining the credibility of West Africa’s educational institutions and programs like NYSC is critical for national development, social mobility, and regional cooperation. As authorities continue investigations and implement corrective measures, there must be a concerted effort to balance tough enforcement with meaningful reform. Strengthening transparency—not only in the issuance of certificates but also in recruitment and verification—will be vital to restoring public trust.
What are your thoughts on the alleged collaboration between Benin Republic universities and Nigerian polytechnics to bypass NYSC regulations? Have you observed similar practices in your community or workplace? Drop your opinion in the comments and follow us for more investigative reports and updates on education and national policy.
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