Nigeria unveils overhauled school curriculum to prepare students for future challenges

Nigeria has introduced a redesigned curriculum for basic, senior secondary, and technical education, aimed at reducing content overload and equipping learners with skills for a fast-changing global economy.

The announcement was made by Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON. She said the reforms were developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Under the new framework, Primary 1–3 pupils will take 9–10 subjects, Primary 4–6 pupils will take 10–12, junior secondary students 12–14, senior secondary students 8–9, and technical schools 9–11 subjects. The Ministry said this adjustment would give students more time to focus on deeper learning rather than rote memorisation.

“This step reflects the government’s commitment to delivering education that is relevant, practical, and responsive to the needs of learners in today’s rapidly changing world,” Professor Ahmad said.

The reform, according to the Ministry, also seeks to modernise teaching content, align Nigerian education with international standards, and promote inclusiveness and diversity across schools.

Officials said the implementation of the revised curricula will be closely monitored to ensure smooth adoption across the country. The government pledged to work with teachers, administrators, and school owners to manage the transition.

The Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, said the overhaul was the result of extensive consultations and teamwork among stakeholders. “The new curriculum is stronger and future-focused. It will guarantee effective adoption and a smooth transition nationwide,” she said.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has long faced challenges in its education sector, including overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and outdated learning methods. Authorities hope the new framework will help bridge skills gaps and prepare young Nigerians to compete in a global knowledge economy.