By Gabriel Ameh
The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that a History textbook titled “Living History” is not approved for use in Nigerian schools, dismissing circulating claims that the book was officially endorsed and allegations surrounding its content.
In a statement issued on February 2, 2026, the Ministry said its attention was drawn to misleading reports and public conversations suggesting that the textbook had received federal approval, alongside accusations that it excluded Igbo historical content.
The Ministry stated “clearly, firmly, and unequivocally” that Living History was never approved or recommended for use in any Nigerian school. It further explained that the book was not submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) the statutory body responsible for reviewing, evaluating, and approving instructional materials in line with the national curriculum.
As a result, the textbook was neither assessed nor listed among the officially approved History textbooks by the Federal Ministry of Education.
Following consultations with NERDC leadership and a review of the officially endorsed materials aligned with the new curriculum, the Ministry confirmed that Living History does not feature on the approved list of instructional materials for nationwide use.
The Ministry therefore advised parents, teachers, school proprietors, administrators, and the general public to disregard misinformation surrounding the book and to refrain from adopting it in schools.
It emphasized that the use of unapproved instructional materials could undermine curriculum standards and negatively impact teaching quality and learning outcomes. According to the statement, all approved textbooks are designed to comply strictly with the national curriculum and reflect Nigeria’s cultural diversity, shared history, and national values, while promoting inclusivity and unity.
The Ministry urged the public to verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels before adoption and encouraged stakeholders to consult NERDC for confirmed information on approved textbooks.
“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” the statement concluded.
The statement was signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.
