FG Introduces Textbook Ranking System, Bans Substandard Materials in Schools
The Federal Government has introduced a national textbook ranking system for primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary schools as part of efforts to improve the quality of learning materials used in classrooms nationwide.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the development in a statement issued on Sunday by Folasade Boriowo, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations.
According to the statement, the initiative is aimed at tackling the growing proliferation of textbooks while ensuring that only high quality, curriculum compliant materials are approved for use in schools.
The ministry said the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will continue to oversee textbook approvals in line with its statutory mandate, but will now integrate a structured national ranking process to determine the most suitable books for each subject and academic level.
“Approved textbooks will now undergo a structured national ranking process to identify the most suitable options for each subject and level,” the statement said.
It added that NERDC will establish standing subject committees made up of experts to carry out detailed evaluations based on clearly defined academic and teaching standards.
“Only a limited number of top ranked textbooks will be approved, ensuring improved quality control and consistency nationwide,” the ministry stated.
The government also made it clear that any textbook not included in the ranking system will not be approved for classroom use, regardless of its licensing status.
Implementation of the new policy is expected to begin in September 2026 after consultations with stakeholders and the completion of the evaluation framework.