The National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) is defending its certifications, saying they're of equal right with that of West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO). The board has been in existence since 1960 and became nationally recognised by the Federal Ministry of Education in 2011.
In 2017, NBAIS started operating as an independent body, just like WAEC and NECO. However, despite the fact that NBAIS certificate is officially recognised and equal to WAEC and NECO, many Nigerian universities still don't accept it as part of the requirements for admission. Just to know, the examination body includes English, Mathematics, and Sciences as part of its core subjects.
Why Universities reject NBAIS certificate
So, why is it not generally acceptable in Nigerian universities and polytechnics? According to Ustaz Abdul-Lateef Adekilekun, special assistant to the NBAIS registrar, the board’s certificate meets the same standard as other national examinations. It is approved by both the Federal Ministry of Education, and the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Despite official approval, many universities especially in southern Nigeria do not fully accept NBAIS certificates due to a lack of awareness about the board's history and legal standing. This issue creates significant challenges for students from NBAIS-affiliated schools, as it hinders their ability to gain admission into universities, even when they meet the necessary qualifications.
The limited recognition by admissions officers and institutions stems primarily from unfamiliarity with the NBAIS board, affecting the educational opportunities available to these students.
Today, many universities in northern Nigeria, including public institutions in Kano, Kaduna, and other northern states, as well as some federal universities adhering to NUC guidelines, accept NBAIS results for admission. This broad recognition is notable, as students from 26 states participate in the NBAIS exams, and over 1,200 schools across Nigeria are affiliated with the board.
NBAIS has also seek support from the federal government, asking them to set up a nationwide campaign that will create awareness among universities and the general public about the value and legality of its certificate.