The Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Prof Timothy Adebayo, has called on tertiary institutions in Nigeria to be vigilant and avoid being manipulated into validating fake degree certificates from certain foreign institutions.
The warning comes in the wake of the Federal Government’s recent ban on select foreign universities operating in Nigeria, a measure aimed at curbing the proliferation of fraudulent academic certificates revealed in an investigative report.
Prof Adebayo emphasised that agents associated with these banned universities are attempting to exploit Nigerian institutions to legitimise their illicit activities.
Expressing concern, he stated, “As managers of academic institutions, it is alarming to discover that individuals can acquire academic certificates within two months for a course that typically spans four years. Regardless of financial inducements, we must guard against activities that could undermine the standard of education in Nigeria. We are pleased that the government has taken decisive action against such practices.”
Prof Adebayo highlighted the need for institutions to remain vigilant against the tactics employed by agents facilitating the distribution of fake certificates.
He shared a personal encounter, revealing, “I have been approached by an agent who claimed to have over 100 students studying abroad but seeking to complete their final year at Ajayi Crowther University.
While the agent promised to fulfill all financial requirements, a thorough examination of the proposal raised suspicions. It became evident that the agent’s intention was to exploit our institution to legitimise his illegal academic activities.”
Acknowledging that similar approaches may be made to other universities, Prof Adebayo said, “We must be wary of the activities of these agents who pose a threat to education. The image and integrity of our institution must not be jeopardised for any financial gain.”