Lagos: The Ministry of Education has reintroduced Nigerian History as a compulsory subject in the national basic education curriculum. The move is to foster national identity, unity, patriotism, and responsible citizenship among young Nigerians.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, expressed their gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for championing this reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The Director of Press of the Ministry, Folashade Boriowo, quoted the ministers stating that Nigerian pupils will now study Nigerian History continuously from Primary 1 through Junior Secondary School 3. Additionally, students in SSS 1-3 will learn the newly developed subject Civic and Heritage Studies, which integrates Nigerian History with Civic Education.
The ministers emphasized that history is not just a record of the past but a foundation for shaping responsible and patriotic citizens. This innovative approach ensures learners understand the nation’s story while cultivating values of citizenship, responsibility, and service. Pupils from Primary 1-6 will explore Nigeria’s origins, cultural heritage, political evolution, and more. Junior Secondary School students will study topics such as early Nigerian civilizations, pre-colonial states, and democratic governance blended with civic values to strengthen identity and national unity.
The ministers described the reform as a priceless gift to the nation, reconnecting children with their roots while inspiring pride, unity, and commitment to Nigeria’s development. Embedding civic education into the new curriculum will equip learners with knowledge and values necessary to respect diversity, uphold institutions, and contribute positively to society.
The Ministry has officially released the revised Nigerian History Curriculum for Primary 1-6 and JSS1-3. To ensure effective implementation, it will collaborate with stakeholders to provide resources, retrain teachers, and strengthen monitoring and evaluation frameworks. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to rekindle pride in Nigeria’s past, nurture civic consciousness, and prepare young Nigerians with the knowledge and values required for responsible nation-building.
The ministers called on parents, educators, and communities to embrace the reform as a shared responsibility in raising patriotic, disciplined, and forward-looking citizens.