FG Launches Mandatory Ethics, Criminal Record Checks for Teachers

The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a Teacher Ethics and Criminal Record Verification Framework, making it compulsory for all teachers in both public and private schools to undergo comprehensive background checks before employment.

The initiative, announced on Tuesday in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Education, is part of ongoing reforms aimed at safeguarding pupils and raising the standards of professionalism within the nation’s education sector.

According to the ministry, the framework will ensure that teachers’ credentials, ethical standing, and criminal records are thoroughly vetted in collaboration with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.

Only candidates who pass the verification process will be licensed to teach in Nigerian classrooms.

A ministry spokesperson explained that the move is designed to “restore public trust in the teaching profession and protect children from unqualified or potentially dangerous individuals who may attempt to infiltrate the school system.”

The framework is also expected to curb the prevalence of forged certificates and strengthen accountability among educators.

Schools found to employ teachers without clearance risk sanctions, including fines and withdrawal of operating licenses.

Education stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a crucial step in promoting child safety and upholding the dignity of the teaching profession.

However, some private school operators expressed concerns about potential delays in recruitment processes if the verification system is not efficiently managed.

The Federal Government assured that a digital platform will soon be rolled out to streamline applications, while periodic audits will be conducted to ensure full compliance across all states of the federation.