The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially published the fee structure for the National Electronic Repository of Digital (NERD) programme, clarifying the costs associated with student enrolment and project uploads. This initiative aims to streamline the digitisation of academic records across the nation, enhancing data integrity and accessibility for students.

According to the announcement, students who wish to enrol in the NERD programme will be required to pay a total of ₦2,520 as a programme support contribution. Additionally, students using accredited Digital Service Centres (DSCs) for project uploads will incur a one-time fee of ₦4,750. Those opting to complete their project uploads independently will pay a slightly higher fee of ₦4,850.

NERD has established a network of accredited DSCs across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas. These centres are staffed by trained Enrolment Centre Operators who assist students with various services, including enrolment, project uploads, document scanning, and digitisation of statements of results. Each DSC is permitted to charge a maximum of ₦2,500 for services rendered, although they may choose to charge less.

Students are strongly advised to avoid making payments to unauthorised third parties and to ensure that all transactions are conducted through the official NERD platform. The government has warned that any DSC found violating the maximum charge policy will face expulsion from the NERD scheme.

In a related development, the Federal Government has announced plans to begin a nationwide verification of academic credentials for all employees and job applicants across various ministries, departments, and higher institutions starting from October 6, 2025. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the integrity of academic qualifications in Nigeria.

With the implementation of the NERD programme, the government aims to improve the long-term preservation of student information and facilitate easier access to academic records, which is expected to benefit both students and educational institutions alike.