FG bans unrated textbooks in schools from September 2026

The Federal Government has introduced a National Textbook Ranking System for Primary, Junior, and Senior Secondary Schools to strengthen quality assurance and standardisation in Nigeria’s education sector.

The government added that unrated textbooks will not be permitted for use from September 2026.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this known via a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Boriowo Folasade, on Monday, April 27, 2026.

Alausa said the initiative would address the proliferation of textbooks and ensure that only high-quality, curriculum-compliant materials are approved for classroom use.

Alausa stated that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) will retain its statutory role of approving textbooks.

The minister said approved textbooks will now undergo a structured national ranking process to identify the most suitable options for each subject and level.

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He added: “NERDC will establish Standing Subject Committees comprising experts to conduct rigorous evaluations based on defined academic and pedagogical standards. Only a limited number of top-ranked textbooks will be approved, ensuring improved quality control and consistency nationwide.

“Under the policy, any textbook not ranked will not be permitted for use, regardless of prior licensing status.

“Implementation will commence from September 2026 following stakeholder engagement and completion of the evaluation framework.”

Alausa further reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving learning outcomes and ensuring access to high-quality educational resources.