The Federal Government has introduced a National Textbook Ranking System for primary, junior, and senior secondary schools as part of efforts to enhance quality and standardisation in Nigeria’s education sector.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the Federal Ministry of Education explained that the initiative is designed to eliminate substandard textbooks and ensure that only high-quality, curriculum-compliant materials are used in classrooms.
The ministry noted that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will continue to carry out its statutory role of approving textbooks.
According to the statement, approved textbooks will now be subjected to a structured national ranking process to determine the most suitable options for each subject and educational level.
The government further revealed that the NERDC will set up Standing Subject Committees made up of experts to conduct thorough assessments based on academic and teaching standards.
It added that only a select number of top-performing textbooks will be approved, a move expected to strengthen quality control and ensure consistency across schools nationwide.
The new policy also makes it clear that any textbook not ranked under the system will not be allowed for use in schools, regardless of any previous approval.
The ministry disclosed that the ranking system will take effect from September 2026 after consultations with key stakeholders and the completion of the evaluation framework.
It reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving learning outcomes and ensuring students have access to high-quality educational materials.
