Nigeria introduces basic, senior schools’ textbook ranking system for standardisation

Nigeria is taking a decisive step toward improving the quality and consistency of education with the introduction of a new textbook ranking system for basic and senior schools.

Designed to standardise learning materials nationwide, the Federal Ministry of Education emphasised that the initiative aims to guide schools, teachers, and parents toward approved, high-quality textbooks while curbing the proliferation of substandard content.

Boriowo Folasade, director of press and public relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, made this known in a statement when she said that the federal government has introduced a National Textbook Ranking System for Primary, Junior, and Senior Secondary Schools to strengthen quality assurance and standardisation in Nigeria’s education sector.

“The initiative aims to address the proliferation of textbooks and ensure that only high-quality, curriculum-compliant materials are approved for classroom use,” the statement read.

Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, alongside Suwaiba Ahmad, the minister of state for education, stated that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will retain its statutory role of approving textbooks.

However, approved textbooks will now undergo a structured national ranking process to identify the most suitable options for each subject and level.

“NERDC will establish Standing Subject Committees comprising experts to conduct rigorous evaluations based on defined academic and pedagogical standards. Only a limited number of top-ranked textbooks will be approved, ensuring improved quality control and consistency nationwide.

Under the policy, any textbook not ranked will not be permitted for use, regardless of prior licensing status.

The Federal Ministry of Education emphasised that the implementation of the new policy will commence from September 2026 following stakeholder engagement and completion of the evaluation framework.

Besides, the federal government reaffirmed its commitment to improving learning outcomes and ensuring access to high-quality educational resources.

Education stakeholders say the move could strengthen curriculum delivery, enhance student outcomes, and bring greater accountability to the publishing space.