The Hijrah Islamic Organisation of Nigeria, has issued a strong warning against what it terms as “needless distractions and insensitive reactions” following the recent recognition of the Senior Arabic and Islamic Secondary School Certificate Examination (SAISSCE) by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and others.
In a statement released on today, signed by the National Chairman of the Organisation, Prof Badmas Olanrewaju Yusuf, urged Nigerians to view the policy through an academic lens rather than a religious one.
The Organisation described attempts by some groups, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and related Christian coalitions, to politicize or sensationalize the matter as potentially harmful to Nigeria’s fragile social fabric.
According to Prof. Yusuf, the acceptance of SAISSCE as equivalent to WAEC, NECO, and NBTE certificates is based on the federal government’s approval of the certificate since 2011.
“The SAISSCE curriculum covers core academic subjects such as English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, meeting the required educational standards for nursing admissions,” he explained.
He further cautioned that “any effort to frame this policy along religious lines risks inciting unnecessary tension and division in our society.”
The Organisation called on all stakeholders, especially religious and community leaders, to promote dialogue and understanding rather than confrontation.
The Christian coalitions, particularly CAN, had recently voiced concerns that the move could undermine the secular standards of Nigeria’s education system and marginalize Christian students. They argued that recognizing a religious-based certificate on par with secular national exams could set a precedent affecting educational quality and religious balance.
The Organisation advised to engage constructively with policymakers rather than resort to protests or inflammatory rhetoric.
“Our nation’s strength lies in its unity and respect for diversity. We call on all Nigerians to resist sectarian provocations that could ‘turn Nigeria upside down'”, the statement added.
Educational experts agree that inclusion of diverse educational certificates can enhance access to professional training, especially in a country as pluralistic as Nigeria.
The statement added that, policy analyst, had noted, “Recognizing certificates like SAISSCE helps bridge gaps for students from various educational backgrounds and encourages wider participation in key sectors such as healthcare.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education has urged Nigerians to remain calm and assured that the equivalence policy follows thorough review and aligns with national standards.
HION reiterated its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and equitable educational opportunities for all Nigerians, irrespective of religious or cultural differences.
