By Achile Momoh
The Federal Government has introduced a National Textbook Ranking System aimed at improving the quality, consistency, and standardisation of learning materials used in primary and secondary schools across Nigeria.
The initiative, announced on April 26, 2026, is part of broader reforms to strengthen quality assurance in the education sector and address the growing number of textbooks currently in circulation.
Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suiwaba Sai’d Ahmad, explained that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will retain its statutory responsibility of approving textbooks.
However, under the new framework, approved books will now undergo an additional ranking process to determine the most suitable options for classroom use.
According to the ministers, the ranking system will involve a structured national evaluation process, where textbooks submitted by publishers will be assessed based on defined academic and pedagogical standards.
To ensure credibility, NERDC will establish Standing Subject Committees made up of experts across various disciplines. These committees will conduct detailed reviews and recommend only a limited number of top-quality textbooks for each subject and education level.
The government said the reform is expected to reduce confusion caused by the excessive number of textbooks in schools, while promoting transparency and aligning Nigeria’s education system with global best practices.
Under the new policy, textbooks that are not ranked will no longer be permitted for use in schools, even if they were previously licensed.
Authorities also noted that awareness campaigns will be rolled out to guide teachers, publishers, and other stakeholders on compliance with the new system.
Implementation of the National Textbook Ranking System is scheduled to begin in the September 2026 academic session, following the completion of evaluation guidelines and the inauguration of subject committees.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving education delivery and ensuring Nigerian students have access to high-quality learning resources
