Jack Acheme, Abuja
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.
Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, expressed their profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for championing the landmark reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Director of Press of the Ministry, Folashade Boriowo in a statement, quoted the ministers, as saying that for the first time in decades, Nigerian pupils will study Nigerian History continuously from Primary 1 through Junior Secondary School 3 while students in SSS 1 -3 will learn the newly developed subject Civic and Heritage Studies, which integrates Nigerian History with Civic Education.
“History is not merely a record of the past but a vital foundation for shaping responsible and patriotic citizens.
“This innovative approach ensures learners understand the nation’s story while cultivating the values of citizenship, responsibility, and service.
“Primary 1–6: Pupils will explore Nigeria’s origins, heroes and heroines, traditional rulers and institutions, cultural heritage, political evolution, geography, environment, economy, religions, colonial administration, and post-independence governance.
“Junior Secondary School (JSS1–JSS3) Students will study Civic and Heritage Studies, covering topics such as early Nigerian civilisations, pre-colonial states, West African empires, trans-Saharan trade, European contacts, amalgamation, the independence movement, and democratic governance blended with civic values to strengthen identity and national unity,” the Ministers announced.
According to the Ministers, this reform represents 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 the 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 statement said.
The ministers added that 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.
They called on parents, educators, and communities to embrace the historic reform as a shared responsibility in raising patriotic, disciplined, and forward-looking citizens.
Olusola Akintonde