The Federal Government has announced that textbooks not ranked under a new national system will no longer be allowed in primary, junior and senior secondary schools from September 2026.
The policy is part of the newly introduced National Textbook Ranking System aimed at improving quality and standardisation across Nigeria’s education sector.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the Federal Ministry of Education said the initiative would address the growing use of substandard textbooks in schools.
The ministry said the policy is designed to ensure that only curriculum-compliant and high-quality learning materials are used in classrooms nationwide.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council will continue to handle the approval of textbooks as required by law.
It stated: “Approved textbooks will now undergo a structured national ranking process to identify the most suitable options for each subject and level.”
The ministry explained that the NERDC would set up Standing Subject Committees made up of experts to assess books using academic and pedagogical standards.
It added: “Only a limited number of top-ranked textbooks will be approved, ensuring improved quality control and consistency nationwide.”
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The government also made it clear that previous approval would no longer be enough for a textbook to remain in use.
The statement said: “Under this policy, any textbook not ranked will not be permitted for use, regardless of prior licensing status.”
Implementation of the ranking system is expected to begin in September 2026 after consultations with stakeholders and the completion of the evaluation framework.
The ministry said the Federal Government remains committed to improving learning outcomes and expanding access to quality educational resources for pupils across the country.
