The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has publicly defended President Bola Tinubu’s academic credentials, asserting that he graduated with a first-class degree in accounting from Chicago State University. This declaration was made during an interview on Channels Television, where Alausa emphasized his familiarity with the university, having lived in Chicago for nearly three decades.

Alausa stated, "I’m telling you hardcore facts. I lived in Chicago for almost 30 years. I’ve been to that university so many times." He further claimed to have met numerous individuals who studied alongside Tinubu, reinforcing his confidence in the President's academic record. When pressed about the specifics of Tinubu's degree, Alausa confirmed, "In accounting, of course," dismissing ongoing doubts regarding the President's intellectual capabilities by labeling him a genius.

The discussion surrounding Tinubu’s educational qualifications has been reignited, particularly following the recent display of personal particulars and academic credentials by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the upcoming 2027 general elections. Tinubu’s Form EC9, which was reviewed by Punch, indicates that he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Chicago State University, awarded with honours on June 22, 1979. However, the form notably left the sections for primary and secondary school qualifications blank, marked as “0000.” This omission has sparked renewed scrutiny and debate among political figures and commentators.

Tinubu’s academic history has been a contentious topic since the 2023 presidential election petition, which included challenges to his qualifications. In September 2023, Chicago State University confirmed that he attended and graduated from the institution, majoring in accounting. However, the university's records do not specify that he graduated with a first-class classification, a claim that Alausa made during the recent interview.

The university's registrar, Caleb Westberg, testified in a U.S. court that Tinubu indeed graduated from the institution, further validating his attendance. Despite this, the lack of clarity regarding the classification of his degree continues to fuel public discourse.

Alausa also took the opportunity to highlight Tinubu’s achievements in office, claiming that the President has revitalized Nigeria’s economy, transforming it from a struggling state to one that is now on a growth trajectory. He asserted, "Look at how he’s transformed a moribund country three years ago to a country that is growing." However, when challenged about the country’s ongoing issues, such as high rates of out-of-school children and poverty, Alausa insisted that the focus should remain on the President's accomplishments.

As the debate over Tinubu’s educational background continues, the public remains divided, with some supporting Alausa’s assertions while others call for greater transparency regarding the President’s qualifications. The scrutiny is expected to persist as the 2027 elections approach, with Tinubu’s academic credentials likely to remain a focal point of discussion.