The Federal Ministry of Education has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that the Federal Government and the National Assembly are considering scrapping the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), describing the claim as false and misleading.
In a press release issued on June 16, 2026, the ministry said it had not initiated, proposed, endorsed, or supported any policy aimed at abolishing NBAIS or undermining its statutory mandate.
According to the ministry, the reports suggesting a government-backed move against the examination body are entirely unfounded and capable of creating unnecessary anxiety among students, parents, educators, religious organisations, and other stakeholders.
“The Ministry wishes to categorically state that the claim is false, misleading, and entirely unfounded,” the statement said.
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The ministry clarified that no bill seeking the abolition of NBAIS has been presented before the National Assembly by the Federal Ministry of Education.
It further stressed that NBAIS remains a legally recognised examination and certification body operating within Nigeria’s education system and continues to enjoy government support in line with existing laws and educational policies.
The statement noted that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting all legally established educational institutions and examination bodies, guided by the principles of inclusiveness, equity, and equal opportunity.
Expressing concern over the spread of unverified information, the ministry warned that such claims could mislead the public and erode confidence in government institutions.
It therefore urged Nigerians to disregard the publication and refrain from sharing unverified reports capable of generating misinformation and public apprehension.
The ministry also advised stakeholders to rely solely on official communications from the Federal Ministry of Education and other authorised government channels for accurate information on education policies, programmes, and reforms.
The statement added that the Federal Ministry of Education remained committed to promoting quality education, national cohesion, and constructive engagement with all stakeholders in advancing the nation’s educational objectives.
The clarification comes amid growing discussions on social media over the future of NBAIS, a body responsible for conducting examinations and awarding certificates in Arabic and Islamic studies across the country.
