Federal ministry directs colleges on dual-mode degree mandate

On 27 October 2026, the Federal Ministry of Education announced that Colleges of Education have been assigned the responsibility to prepare for dual-mode implementation, maintain accountability, and follow regulatory standards. The charge was delivered by Minister of State for Education Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad in Abuja at a retreat organised by the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

The retreat theme was “Effective Implementation of the Dual Mandate of Education in Nigeria and the Unveiling of the New Dual Mandate Curriculum”. The dual-mode system lets Colleges of Education keep teacher training while expanding capacity to offer degree programmes.

Before launching degree programmes, institutions must meet every regulatory requirement; approval alone does not mean they can start. Colleges wishing to adopt the mandate must show they have qualified academic staff, suitable teaching and learning facilities, and effective quality-assurance systems.

The new dual-mode curriculum sets minimum academic standards for degree programmes and provides a basis for curriculum development and student progression.

The minister urged the NCCE to disseminate the curriculum, promote consistent implementation and monitor compliance with the prescribed standards. Provosts of Colleges of Education were charged to prioritise continuous professional development for lecturers.

Who it affects

This directive impacts students and staff in Colleges of Education that intend to run or enrol in degree programmes under the dual-mode system.

Key dates

• 27 October 2026: Minister of State for Education delivered the charge at the NCCE retreat in Abuja