FG rolls out first nationwide learning assessment in schools

The Federal Government has declared Monday, June 29 to Friday, July 3, 2026, as National Learning Assessment (NLA) Week, marking the commencement of Nigeria’s first-ever nationwide learning assessment across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The initiative is aimed at generating reliable data on learners’ achievement levels and providing evidence to guide educational planning, policy reforms, resource allocation, and efforts to improve learning outcomes across the country.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the assessment is strictly diagnostic and will not be used for promotion, placement, or certification of learners.

“The assessment is designed to generate reliable data on learners’ achievement levels and provide evidence to support educational planning, policy reforms, resource allocation, and improved learning outcomes nationwide,” the statement said.

The ministry explained that preparations for the exercise began in 2025 through a collaborative effort involving the Federal Ministry of Education and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), with technical and financial support from UNICEF and the World Bank.

As part of the preparations, assessment instruments were developed and pilot-tested, while personnel responsible for administering the exercise received the necessary training.

The nationwide assessment will be conducted in sampled schools across the country and will cover learners in Primary Three, Primary Five, Junior Secondary School Two (JS2), and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2).

“The exercise will be conducted in sampled schools nationwide and will cover learners in Primary 3, Primary 5, Junior Secondary School 2 (JS2), and Senior Secondary School 2 (SS2). Subjects include English Language, Mathematics, Basic Science and Technology, and Citizenship and Heritage Studies,” the statement read

Subjects to be assessed include English Language, Mathematics, Basic Science and Technology, as well as Citizenship and Heritage Studies.

Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, described the exercise as a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to strengthen accountability within the education sector and improve learning outcomes through evidence-based decision-making.

According to the minister, the findings from the assessment will provide valuable insights into the performance of learners across different levels of education and help policymakers identify learning gaps that require targeted interventions.