The Federal Ministry of Education has announced that Nigerians can now apply online for the authentication of Nigerian academic qualifications and the evaluation of foreign credentials through its ESSVerify portal, removing the need to visit the ministry physically.
According to the ministry, the digital platform also allows users to verify documents previously issued under its Education Sector Support and Services (ESS), as well as apply for eligibility or proficiency letters and letters of no objection.
The ministry disclosed that its Education Sector Support Services were fully digitised in April 2026 following the launch of the ESSVerify portal, which replaced the former physical verification process.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, reaffirmed the completion of the digitisation exercise on Wednesday.
The ministry advised applicants to first identify the service they require, noting that the portal provides separate application options for different academic credential needs.
It explained that holders of Nigerian academic qualifications who intend to use their certificates abroad can apply for authentication, which verifies credentials for purposes such as further studies, employment and migration.
The portal also allows applicants to request eligibility or proficiency letters to confirm their suitability for admission into foreign institutions or for employment requirements. In addition, institutions and organisations seeking the ministry’s approval for programmes or partnerships can apply for letters of no objection through the platform.
Here is how to verify an already-issued ESS document
This option is different from applying to authenticate or evaluate a certificate. It is intended for employers, schools, organisations or individuals who want to check the authenticity of a document issued by the Ministry through ESS.
To verify an existing document:
Visit the ESSVerify portal at https://essverify.education.gov.ng/
Click on “Verify a document” or the corresponding document-verification option on the portal.
Enter the document number displayed on the ESS-issued certificate or letter.
Submit the request by clicking “Verify”.
The system will indicate whether the document is genuine.
How to authenticate or evaluate your academic certificate
Applicants who want to obtain authentication for a Nigerian qualification or evaluation of a foreign qualification will need to make a full application through the portal.
To begin:
Visit the ESSVerify portal and click “Start an application”.
Create an account using a valid email address, verify the email and complete your profile.
Log in and select the service required – Authentication, Evaluation, Eligibility/English Proficiency Letter or Letter of No Objection.
Provide the required personal and qualification details.
Select the documents to be processed and indicate the number of pages as required by the application.
Generate the Remita Retrieval Reference and make the required payment. Payments are non-refundable.
Upload clear and legible scanned copies of the required documents.
Where an official transcript is required, contact the registry of the awarding institution and request that the transcript be sent directly from the institution to the designated email address.
