14/05/2026
PRESS RELEASE
CEEO Nigeria Commends Federal Government for Excluding Education and Agriculture Candidates from UTME
Describes Policy as a Bold Step Toward Revitalizing Nigeria’s Education and Food Security Sectors
Abuja, Nigeria | 14th May 2026.
The Centre for Educational Empowerment and Orientation (CEEO Nigeria) has warmly commended the Federal Ministry of Education and the Honourable Minister of Education for the landmark decision to exclude candidates seeking admission into Education and Agriculture-related programmes from the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) requirements.
The organization described the policy as a timely, strategic, and transformative intervention aimed at addressing declining interest in the teaching profession and strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural future.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, the Executive Director of CEEO Nigeria, Oyebisi, W. Davidcrown, stated that the decision reflects responsive leadership and a practical understanding of Nigeria’s urgent developmental priorities.
“This is a commendable and courageous policy direction. By removing barriers to entry for students who are willing to pursue careers in education and agriculture, the Federal Government is making a clear statement that these sectors are national priorities deserving urgent attention and investment.”
According to him, the teaching profession has experienced a steady decline in attractiveness over the years, with many young people discouraged from pursuing careers in education due to limited incentives and systemic challenges. He noted that making access easier for aspiring educators could help reverse this trend and contribute significantly to improving teacher supply and educational quality across the country.
He also emphasized that the inclusion of agriculture in the policy demonstrates the government’s recognition of the critical role young professionals must play in achieving food security, economic diversification, and sustainable rural development.
CEEO Nigeria believes the policy will contribute to:
Increased enrolment in teacher education institutions and agricultural programmes;
Improved availability of qualified teachers across schools in Nigeria;
Greater youth participation in agriculture and agribusiness innovation;
Reduction of admission barriers for students interested in serving in critical national sectors;
Stronger alignment between educational policy and national development goals.
While applauding the initiative, the organization also called on the Federal Government to complement the policy with additional support mechanisms such as scholarships, bursaries, internship pathways, professional mentorship, and improved welfare incentives for students and professionals in both sectors.
“As an organization committed to strengthening quality education and promoting respect for the teaching profession, we see this as a major step in the right direction. We encourage sustained reforms that will further restore dignity, opportunity, and public confidence in these essential fields,” the statement added.
CEEO Nigeria reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with government agencies, educational institutions, and other stakeholders in supporting policies and programmes that advance equitable, functional, and quality education for all Nigerians.
About CEEO Nigeria
The Centre for Educational Empowerment and Orientation (CEEO Nigeria) is a non-profit educational organization committed to promoting SDG 4 (Quality Education) through teacher development, policy advocacy, instructional support, educational research, and strategic interventions aimed at strengthening learning outcomes and educational resilience across Nigeria.
Media Contact:
Oyebisi, W. Davidcrown
Executive Director, CEEO Nigeria
www.ceeonigeria.org
