Abuja: The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) has issued a stern warning to teachers, school owners, and prospective applicants about the risks of falling victim to fraudulent portals and individuals posing as agents of the council.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the warning was delivered by the Registrar/Chief Executive of TRCN, Dr. Ronke Soyombo, in a statement issued in Abuja. This follows reports of individuals and groups allegedly using the council’s name, logo, and identity to deceive unsuspecting members of the public. Soyombo emphasized that TRCN has not authorized any agent, consultant, or third party to collect money or process registration, certification, licensing, employment, or promotion outside its approved procedures and official channels.
Soyombo further clarified that the council’s official website, www.trcn.gov.ng, is the only approved online platform for information on its programs and services. She reiterated that the council does not own or operate any other portal apart from its official website. The registrar urged teachers and other stakeholders to be cautious of social media posts, WhatsApp messages, emails, and websites claiming to offer access to TRCN services.
The statement also cautioned the public against making payments into personal bank accounts, stressing that the council does not collect payments through such channels. Certificates and licenses obtained through unofficial processes will not be recognized by the council. Soyombo stated that certificates and licenses issued outside the official process are invalid and will not be recognized.
Soyombo advised Nigerians who have already made payments to suspected fraudsters or received suspicious communications in the name of TRCN to report such incidents to security agencies and notify the council through its official communication channels. She noted that the council had directed its legal advisers and relevant law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals impersonating TRCN or defrauding the public.
The registrar urged stakeholders to verify information through the council’s official channels before making payments or taking action on any purported TRCN service. She reiterated the council’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of teacher registration, certification, and licensing processes in the country.