How NSCDC Rescued 106 Students From a Fake University in Lagos
The rescue of 106 young people from a suspected fake university in Lagos has renewed concerns about the need to protect every child’s and young person’s right to quality, safe and legitimate education.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said it uncovered the illegal institution during a raid in Badagry, rescuing students aged mostly between 19 and 24 who had allegedly been deceived with promises of admission into a foreign university.
According to the NSCDC, the suspected operators recruited young people from several Nigerian states and neighbouring West African countries through online platforms. Many reportedly paid between ₦200,000 and ₦1.5 million, while some foreign applicants paid up to $500 believing they were securing genuine educational opportunities.
Beyond the financial losses, child rights advocates say such schemes undermine the right to development by denying young people access to credible education, recognised qualifications and opportunities for personal growth. Instead of building their futures, affected students reportedly found themselves trapped in a recruitment network where they were encouraged to bring in more applicants in exchange for commissions.
NSCDC officials also revealed that many parents were unaware of their children’s true activities, with one family believing their child had travelled to learn a trade rather than attend a university.
The agency said all rescued students will be profiled before being reunited with their families, while investigations continue to identify other collaborators and possible linked operations.
The incident highlights the importance of verifying institutions before paying admission fees and strengthening oversight of online recruitment platforms to protect young people from education-related fraud that threatens their future and right to development.
