The Federal Government has unveiled a nationwide textbook ranking framework for primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary schools as part of reforms aimed at improving quality control and standardisation in the education sector.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the development in a statement issued in Abuja through the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo.
He said the policy is designed to curb the growing number of unregulated textbooks in circulation and ensure that only approved, curriculum-aligned materials are used in classrooms.
According to him, the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will continue to handle textbook approvals, but will now also oversee a structured evaluation and ranking process to identify the most suitable materials for each subject and education level.
Alausa explained that the NERDC will set up Standing Subject Committees comprising specialists in various academic fields to thoroughly review textbooks submitted by publishers.
These committees, he said, will assess learning materials based on established academic and teaching standards before selecting and ranking a limited number for use in schools.
He noted that the reform is expected to reduce the overload of textbooks currently in use, which often causes confusion for teachers, learners, and parents.
The minister stated that the new framework will promote transparency, consistency, and quality assurance while aligning Nigeria’s education system with global best practices in instructional materials.
He added that any textbook not included in the approved ranking list will no longer be allowed for classroom use, regardless of previous approval.
Alausa also said the ministry would work closely with teachers and other education stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and awareness of the new policy.
He disclosed that the system will commence from the September academic session, following the establishment of the committees and completion of the evaluation guidelines.