The Federal Ministry of Education has fully digitised its Education Support Services (ESS) through the ESSVerify portal, which now handles the complete authentication of Nigerian qualifications and the evaluation of foreign certificates online. The platform, launched in April 2026, marked the end of physical certificate verification at the Ministry, as confirmed by Minister Alausa on Wednesday. Nigerians worldwide can now access these services without visiting the Ministry in person.
Services Available on the ESSVerify Portal
The ESSVerify portal offers four main services. First, Nigerians who need to use a local qualification abroad—whether for further studies, employment, or migration—can apply for authentication. Second, those who studied outside Nigeria and need their credentials recognised locally, including for NYSC and employment purposes, can apply for an evaluation.
Third, the portal issues eligibility or proficiency letters for people seeking admission or meeting employment requirements abroad. Fourth, it provides letters of no objection for institutions or organisations that need Ministry clearance for programmes or partnerships. This comprehensive suite replaces the previous in-person processes.
How to Verify an Existing ESS Document
Employers, schools, and organisations can verify an ESS-issued document by visiting the ESSVerify portal at essverify.education.gov.ng. They should select the document-verification option, enter the document number printed on the certificate or letter, and click "Verify." The system will confirm whether the document is authentic. This option is specifically meant for checking documents already issued by the Ministry, not for applicants seeking fresh authentication.
How to Start a New Application
For a new application, users should click "Start an application" on the portal, create an account with a valid email address, verify the email, and complete their profile. After logging in, they must choose the relevant service, fill in personal and qualification details, select the documents to be processed, and indicate the number of pages where required.
Next, applicants generate a Remita Retrieval Reference and pay the applicable fee. The Ministry notes that payments are non-refundable. After payment, users must upload clear, legible scanned copies of all required documents. Where an official transcript is needed, applicants should contact the registry of the institution that awarded the qualification and request that the transcript be sent directly to the Ministry's designated email address.
The transition to the ESSVerify portal streamlines academic credential processes, reducing the need for physical visits and enabling Nigerians abroad to access services remotely. The platform's full digitisation, completed in April 2026, represents a significant step in modernising the Ministry's operations, with all services now available online for applicants and verifying organisations alike.
