NBAIS Certificate Gains Ground, But Universities’ Acceptance Still Uneven
Despite federal approval, many students face rejection—Here’s what you need to know about NBAIS and how it compares to WAEC and NECO.
The National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) has been quietly shaping the academic journey of thousands of students across Nigeria. With a system that blends Arabic and Islamic education with core subjects like English, Mathematics, and the Sciences, NBAIS offers a unique option for learners seeking both religious and secular knowledge.
But while the board has received official recognition from the Federal Ministry of Education and operates independently—just like WAEC and NECO—many universities still refuse to accept its certificates.
Here’s what students, parents, and schools need to know.
What is NBAIS?
NBAIS has been around since 1960, but it became officially recognized by the Federal Ministry of Education in 2011. By 2017, it transitioned into an independent examination body, similar to WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB.
Its curriculum is not limited to Islamic studies. Students are also tested in key national subjects, making it a well-rounded examination platform.
Importantly, NBAIS is open to both Muslim and Christian students. Over 1,200 schools across 26 states in Nigeria are currently affiliated with the board.
Is the NBAIS Certificate Equal to WAEC or NECO?
Yes.
According to Ustaz Abdul-Lateef Adekilekun, the Special Assistant to the Registrar of NBAIS, the certificate is officially recognized by:
- The Federal Ministry of Education
- The National Universities Commission (NUC)
This recognition means the certificate should qualify students for admission into any Nigerian university or tertiary institution.
So, Why Do Some Universities Still Reject It?
Despite its legal backing, several universities—especially in southern Nigeria—continue to reject NBAIS results. This is largely due to:
- Lack of awareness among admission officers
- Misconceptions about the board’s focus and curriculum
- Limited public understanding of its national approval
As a result, qualified students from NBAIS-affiliated schools are denied admission or forced to take alternative exams like WAEC or NECO.
Where is NBAIS Already Accepted?
In northern Nigeria, the NBAIS certificate is more widely recognized. Institutions that accept it include:
- Public universities in Kano, Kaduna, and other northern states
- Some federal universities that follow the NUC’s approval guidelines
As awareness grows, more universities are expected to review their policies.
What is NBAIS Doing to Fix the Problem?
The board is calling on the Federal Government to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign. This would help:
- Inform universities and stakeholders about NBAIS’s official recognition
- Educate the public on the quality and scope of NBAIS education
- Ensure fair access to higher education for all qualified candidates
The Bottom Line
NBAIS offers a legitimate pathway to higher education, blending religious and academic learning in a format approved by Nigeria’s top education bodies.
However, for its full impact to be felt, universities—especially in southern Nigeria—must recognize its qualifications without bias.
As the conversation continues, students and parents are encouraged to ask questions, verify admission policies, and push for change where necessary.
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