The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a revised curriculum for basic and senior secondary schools after extensive stakeholder engagement nationwide. According to a statement from the Federal Ministry of Education, the rollout was preceded by comprehensive consultations with critical stakeholders across the country. The review process, led by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) under the Ministry’s supervision, adopted both competency‑ and outcome‑based approaches to strengthen the curriculum.
The reform followed a step‑by‑step, participatory process designed to ensure inclusivity, national ownership, and international relevance. It began with a nationwide needs assessment in twelve states to identify systemic gaps, followed by dialogues across the six geopolitical zones. Stakeholders—including learners, teachers, parents, civil‑society groups, employers, religious and traditional leaders, policymakers, and development partners—contributed their perspectives to shape the new curriculum framework.
The framework was formally ratified at the 68th National Council on Education meeting on October 10, 2024, attended by ministers of education, commissioners of education, and other key participants. Curriculum design and development involved subject specialists, teacher educators, industry practitioners, and curriculum experts from across the country, following four technical stages: content selection and standardization, drafting, critique and refinement, and final editing.
Since approval, the Ministry has implemented the curriculum in phases over the past nine months, including pilots in selected schools, orientation for teachers, and nationwide training delivered both physically and online. The revised curriculum combines competency and outcome‑based approaches to prepare learners for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities, aligning with global standards while meeting Nigeria’s developmental needs. Details are available on the NERDC website.
The Ministry has assured Nigerians that the revised curriculum will continue to be implemented seamlessly across schools, providing a stronger foundation for the country’s education system. This introduction marks a significant step toward enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria, with potential long‑term benefits for the nation’s development and growth.
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