The Federal Government on Wednesday introduced 82 academic textbooks written by Nigerian scholars as part of efforts to improve teaching, learning, and research in the country’s tertiary institutions.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, unveiled the books during a public ceremony held in Abuja, describing the initiative as a significant step toward promoting academic excellence and reducing dependence on foreign educational materials.
The textbooks were produced under the Higher Education Book Development Intervention Project of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). In addition to the 82 titles unveiled, 10 other books authored by notable scholars were also secured for distribution to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country.
Speaking at the event, Alausa noted that Nigerian tertiary institutions have traditionally relied heavily on foreign textbooks, a trend he said places pressure on the nation’s foreign exchange and limits opportunities for local academic authors.
According to the minister, encouraging the use of locally authored textbooks will help reduce dependence on imported materials while providing students and lecturers with learning resources that better reflect Nigeria’s academic and social realities.
He added that the initiative would particularly benefit fields such as science, technology, and engineering, which are critical to the country’s development.
Alausa explained that the TETFund Book Development Intervention programme focuses on publishing academic textbooks, supporting journals of professional associations, and establishing academic publishing centres within tertiary institutions.
He also commended the scholars, publishers, and other stakeholders involved in the project for their contributions, while acknowledging the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reforms aimed at revitalising the education sector and ensuring stable academic calendars in higher institutions.
The minister expressed confidence that the newly produced textbooks would expand access to quality learning materials and help address gaps in indigenous academic publishing.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono, said the initiative was designed to address the long-standing shortage of quality tertiary-level textbooks in Nigeria.
He explained that 72 of the titles were newly written under the programme, while the remaining 10 were contributed by distinguished scholars. Echono added that TETFund has so far published a total of 202 academic textbooks, with several others currently undergoing evaluation.
He further disclosed that more than 400,000 copies of the books would be distributed to tertiary institutions across the country. Digital versions will also be made available to ensure easier access for students and researchers.
During the ceremony, participants observed a minute of silence in honour of Valerie Young Harry, a late author whose work contributed to the programme.
The Chairman of the TETFund Board of Trustees, Aminu Bello Masari, described her contributions as a lasting legacy. He stressed the importance of converting academic knowledge into practical value and exploring ways to support authors and their families through the commercialisation of textbooks.
