The Federal Government has clarified reports surrounding the decision of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to amend the Act governing the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College, stressing that a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will not replace or be considered equivalent to a medical fellowship.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the Council’s approval allows the College to seek accreditation from the National Universities Commission to award PhD degrees in relevant medical and research disciplines.
The minister explained that the decision was taken under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to strengthen medical research and academic development in the country.
Dr. Alausa noted that some reports in traditional and digital media had wrongly suggested that a PhD would replace or be considered equivalent to a medical fellowship, describing the interpretation as incorrect.
He clarified that a medical fellowship remains a distinct professional qualification in clinical practice, awarded to physicians who complete rigorous residency training and postgraduate medical education required for specialist practice.
According to the minister, the reform simply expands the academic mandate of the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College. While the institution will continue awarding professional fellowships, it may now also offer PhD programmes after obtaining the necessary accreditation from the National Universities Commission.
The ministry added that the initiative is expected to strengthen medical research, advance academic medicine, and promote specialist knowledge development while preserving the integrity and prestige of professional medical fellowships in Nigeria.
