The Federal Government has introduced a new education policy requiring all teachers in Nigeria to secure licenses from the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) before being allowed to teach in classrooms.
The directive, announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, seeks to raise teaching standards, strengthen professional development, and ensure quality education nationwide.
Under the framework, the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) will handle in-service training and community-based professional development programmes, while TRCN will oversee the regulation and licensing of teachers across the country.
Unveiling the policy in Abuja, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, declared that no teacher will be permitted in Nigerian classrooms without TRCN registration and certification.
“No teacher will stand before a Nigerian classroom without TRCN registration and licensing. This guarantees competent and professional teaching for every child,” the Minister stated. “This reform is about results and sustainability. Nigerian children will be taught by the best, prepared for the best, and supported by the best. It is Renewed Hope in action.”
The policy framework also outlines provisions for teacher registration, compliance monitoring, welfare, curriculum standards, and expanded professional development opportunities.
From 2027, both public and private schools that fail to comply with the directive risk losing accreditation. In addition, only schools staffed with TRCN-certified teachers will be accredited as examination centres for WASSCE, NECO, NABTEB, and NBIAS.
The Federal Government emphasised that the reform is intended to professionalise teaching, improve accountability, and rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s education system.
