The Niger Republic has formally submitted a verified list of accredited higher institutions to Nigeria. The move aims to tighten academic verification and eliminate recognition of unapproved schools.
According to officials, the document contains all fully accredited private universities and other tertiary institutions in Niger. It also clearly states the language of instruction for each institution, improving transparency.
Strengthening Cross-Border Academic Verification
First, the initiative is expected to improve cooperation between both countries. It will also help Nigerian authorities verify foreign qualifications more efficiently.
The Minister of Education and Scientific Research of Niger, Professor Mamadou Saidou, directed the submission. He handed the document to Ambassador Musa S. Mamman, Secretary-General of the Nigeria–Niger Joint Commission (NNJC).
Subsequently, the Commission is tasked with forwarding the list to relevant Nigerian authorities. This includes institutions responsible for education, professional regulation, and certification.
Only Recognised Authority Validates Institutions
Importantly, the list was compiled and validated by Niger’s National Agency for Quality Assurance in Higher Education and Research. This body remains the country’s sole authority for accreditation and evaluation.
Authorities stressed that the document represents the only official and authentic record of recognised higher institutions in the Niger Republic, warning that any list outside the verified submission should be considered inaccurate and unauthorised.
Furthermore, the agency’s exclusive mandate is supported by the Declaration of Addis Ababa. This declaration recognises the agency as the only institution authorised to validate academic certificates within and outside Niger.
Nigerian Institutions to Use Verified List
Meanwhile, the Commission has urged Nigerian authorities to circulate the document widely. It specifically mentioned key institutions such as the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Council of Legal Education, and the Medical Council of Nigeria.
In addition, the Commission noted that the step would enhance proper documentation and prevent the recognition of unaccredited institutions within Nigeria’s education and professional systems.
As a result, the NNJC-endorsed list now serves as the definitive reference point. Any institution not included should not be regarded as accredited under any official framework.
A Longstanding Bilateral Partnership
Notably, the Nigeria–Niger Joint Commission was established in 1971. It serves as a platform for cooperation between both nations.
Headquartered in Niamey, the Commission focuses on areas such as security, trade, agriculture, and education. Over time, it has played a key role in fostering academic collaboration and institutional verification.
Ultimately, this latest development marks a significant step toward tackling certificate fraud. It also reinforces trust in cross-border education systems between Nigeria and Niger.