The Federal Government has introduced a new framework designed to vet and verify the criminal records of teachers across public and private schools in Nigeria.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in a statement on Tuesday, said the policy is aimed at curbing impersonation, forgery, and the employment of unqualified staff in schools.
According to the agency, the initiative—dubbed the Teacher Ethics and Criminal Record Verification Framework—is being championed by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa. It seeks to restore professionalism and accountability in the sector by ensuring that only individuals of “sound moral character” are entrusted with the responsibility of teaching.
The framework will be integrated into the existing digital portal of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), enabling real-time registration, licensing, and monitoring of teachers.
TRCN Registrar, Ronke Soyombo, noted that the upgraded digital platform will also feature AI-powered lesson planning tools, as well as state-level investigation panels to handle disciplinary matters.
Nigeria’s education sector has long struggled with challenges ranging from unqualified teachers and poor infrastructure to inadequate funding, all of which have contributed to high numbers of out-of-school children and declining standards.
The TRCN, established by law, has been at the forefront of professionalising the teaching workforce through registration, licensing, and continuous professional development.
