FG introduces national textbook ranking system to improve quality in schools

Education

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the introduction of a National Textbook Ranking System for primary, junior, and senior secondary schools, aimed at strengthening quality assurance and standardisation in Nigeria’s education sector.

According to a statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the initiative seeks to address the proliferation of textbooks and ensure that only high‑quality, curriculum‑compliant materials are approved for classroom use.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, alongside Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, explained that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will continue its statutory role of approving textbooks. However, approved materials 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 new policy, any textbook not ranked will be prohibited from classroom use, regardless of prior licensing status.

Implementation of the ranking system is scheduled to begin in September 2026, following stakeholder engagement and completion of the evaluation framework.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving learning outcomes and ensuring access to high‑quality educational resources, describing the initiative as a significant step toward raising standards across Nigeria’s schools.