The Federal Government has unveiled a National Textbook Ranking System for primary, junior and senior secondary schools, in a move aimed at improving the quality and uniformity of learning materials across the country.
The initiative, announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, is designed to tackle the widespread use of substandard textbooks and ensure that only high-quality, curriculum-compliant materials are used in classrooms.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, it was disclosed that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council will continue to perform its statutory role of approving textbooks.
However, under the new policy, approved textbooks will now be subjected to a structured national ranking process to determine the most suitable options for
each subject and class level.To facilitate this, the NERDC will set up Standing Subject Committees comprising experts who will conduct detailed evaluations based on academic and pedagogical standards.
The government explained that only a select number of top-ranked textbooks will be approved for use, a move expected to strengthen quality control and promote consistency in teaching materials nationwide.
It also stressed that any textbook not ranked under the new system will be prohibited in schools, regardless of any previous approval or licensing status.
The ministry noted that full implementation of the ranking system is scheduled to begin in September 2026, following consultations with key stakeholders and the completion of the evaluation framework.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to enhancing learning outcomes and ensuring that students have access to reliable and high-quality educational resources.
