Federal Government Reintroduces History As Compulsory Subject

The Federal Government has reintroduced Nigerian History as a compulsory subject in the national basic education curriculum.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, who disclosed this, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for championing the landmark reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

They emphasised that History is not merely a record of the past but a vital foundation for shaping responsible and patriotic citizens.

A press statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, said for the first time in decades, Nigerian pupils will study Nigerian History continuously from Primary 1 through Junior Secondary School 3 while students SSS 1 -3 will learn the newly developed subject Civic and Heritage Studies, which integrates Nigerian History with Civic Education.

“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,” she said.

She quoted the Ministers as saying that the reform represented a priceless gift to the nation, reconnecting children with their roots while inspiring pride, unity, and commitment to Nigeria’s development, adding that 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.

According to her, the Ministry has officially released the revised Nigerian History Curriculum for Primary 1–6 and JSS1–3. To ensure effective implementation, she said it will collaborate with stakeholders to provide resources, retrain teachers, and strengthen monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

“This 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 Federal Government calls on parents, educators, and communities to embrace this historic reform as a shared responsibility in raising patriotic, disciplined, and forward-looking citizens,” she added.