The Federal Government has reintroduced Nigerian History as a compulsory subject in the national basic education curriculum, a move it says is aimed at “fostering national identity, unity, patriotism, and responsible citizenship among young Nigerians.”
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo.
Alausa explained that the revised curriculum was developed to rekindle pride in Nigeria’s past, deepen civic consciousness, and equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and values essential for nation-building.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for driving the reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a major step toward shaping the future of the country.
“History is not just a record of the past but a tool for nurturing responsible and patriotic citizens,” the minister said.
He added that, for the first time in decades, pupils would study Nigerian History continuously from Primary 1 through Junior Secondary School 3.
For students in Senior Secondary School (SSS 1–3), a new subject, Civic and Heritage Studies, will combine Nigerian History with Civic Education.
“This innovative model ensures that learners gain a strong grasp of Nigeria’s story while developing the values of citizenship, responsibility, and service,” Alausa stated.
Under the new curriculum, pupils in Primary 1–6 will learn about Nigeria’s origins, notable heroes and heroines, traditional institutions, cultural heritage, political evolution, geography, economy, religions, colonial experience, and post-independence governance. JSS 1–3 students will explore early Nigerian civilisations, pre-colonial states, West African empires, trans-Saharan trade, European contacts, amalgamation, the independence struggle, and democratic governance, all integrated with civic values to strengthen unity.
Alausa described the reform as “a priceless gift to the nation,” reconnecting children with their roots while inspiring pride, discipline, and commitment to national development.
He noted that the ministry had released the revised Nigerian History Curriculum and would work with stakeholders to provide teaching resources, retrain teachers, and enhance monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
The minister called on parents, educators, and communities to embrace the reform, stressing that raising patriotic, disciplined, and forward-thinking citizens is a collective responsibility.
