The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has once again expressed strong concern over the recent developments regarding the Federal Government’s decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria, describing the ongoing back-and-forth as highly problematic and potentially detrimental to the nation’s educational standards.
In a detailed post shared on X (formerly Twitter), titled “Back and Forth Policy on Mathematics: A Costly Mistake,” Obi dissected the implications of the new policy, arguing that it undermines the foundational skills students require to thrive in both academic and professional spheres. He described the policy shift as “a regrettable step backwards” that could weaken Nigeria’s position in a highly competitive global knowledge economy.
Obi Questions Policy Change
Obi referenced the Federal Ministry of Education’s clarification stating that while Mathematics would remain compulsory for secondary school certificates, it would no longer be required for university admissions. He argued that this change “changes nothing fundamentally” in practice, because students’ engagement with the subject often depends on its perceived importance for their academic trajectory. According to him, Arts students in particular are likely to deprioritize Mathematics now that it is not required for entry into higher education institutions.
He emphasized that students’ dedication to studying any subject is frequently linked to its relevance to their immediate goals, warning that this policy could foster complacency among students and diminish their acquisition of essential analytical skills that Mathematics uniquely provides.
“A Step Backward in a Knowledge-Driven Era”
The former Anambra State governor highlighted the critical role of Mathematics as a universal skill, essential not only for scientific and technological advancement but also for developing logical reasoning, analytical precision, and problem-solving capabilities. He underscored that the subject is crucial for cultivating mental rigor and preparing students to navigate complex real-world problems effectively.
Obi stressed that in today’s data-driven, technology-dependent world, removing Mathematics as a requirement for tertiary admission risks producing graduates who lack fundamental problem-solving and reasoning skills necessary for both personal and national development. “Mathematics is not merely about numbers; it cultivates logic, sharpens critical thinking, and develops problem-solving skills essential for everyday life,” he said. “Whether one studies the Arts or Sciences, the ability to reason clearly and make sound judgments is indispensable.”
Calls for Policy Reversal
The Labour Party presidential candidate questioned the rationale behind the Federal Government’s decision, asking whether the move was primarily intended to increase student enrollment numbers at universities rather than focus on quality education. He urged the Ministry of Education and relevant authorities to reconsider the policy, emphasizing that educational standards should never be compromised for the sake of statistics or convenience.
Obi concluded by calling for an urgent reversal of the decision, highlighting the long-term consequences for students and the nation. “I therefore urge the relevant authorities to reconsider this decision in the interest of our students and the future of our nation,” he said. “Education should move forward, not backwards. The development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning is essential for building a competent, innovative, and globally competitive society.”
He further noted that Mathematics forms the backbone of knowledge acquisition and intellectual discipline, and that de-emphasizing the subject in policy decisions risks undermining Nigeria’s educational competitiveness on the world stage. Obi appealed to policymakers to prioritize long-term national development over short-term convenience or political expediency.
