The Federal Ministry of Education has officially debunked reports circulating on social media regarding an alleged sponsorship request for a 15-year-old student said to have qualified to represent Nigeria at the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) in China.
In a press statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Ministry clarified that it has no record or correspondence of any sponsorship request related to the purported Olympiad participant.
“The Ministry affirms that there is no record or correspondence in its files indicating any such request for sponsorship from any recognized body,” the statement read.
The Education Ministry expressed concern over the spread of unverified information, urging the public to disregard unsubstantiated reports and to verify all education-related matters through the Ministry’s official communication channels.
“Accordingly, any relevant or verifiable information regarding this matter should be formally presented to the Ministry for necessary action,” the release stated.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, noting that it remains dedicated to encouraging and supporting outstanding Nigerian students through due process and credible selection procedures.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to encouraging and supporting outstanding students through due process and transparent procedures,” Folasade added.
This clarification follows a wave of online reactions after reports emerged alleging that the government had declined to sponsor a Nigerian student’s participation in the prestigious global competition. The Ministry’s statement aims to quell misinformation and reinforce trust in its administrative processes.
The Ministry emphasized that it will continue to uphold fairness and accountability in all matters concerning student representation and international academic competitions.
