Nigeria Reintroduces History in Schools: Pupils to Learn from Primary 1 to JSS3

The Federal Ministry of Education has officially reintroduced History as a compulsory subject in Nigerian schools starting from the 2025/2026 academic session. The reform, announced on Wednesday through the Ministry’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, aims to strengthen national identity, unity, and patriotism among young Nigerians.

What Students Will Learn

For the first time in decades, pupils will study History continuously from Primary 1 to JSS3. Meanwhile, senior students in SSS1–3 will take a new subject called Civic and Heritage Studies, which blends History with Civic Education.

• Primary 1–6: Pupils will explore Nigeria’s origins, heroes, rulers, culture, politics, economy, religions, colonial rule, and post-independence governance.
• JSS1–3: Students will study civilisations, empires, trade, European contact, amalgamation, independence, democracy, and civic values.
• SSS1–3: Learners will focus on Civic and Heritage Studies. This subject links historical knowledge with civic duties, preparing them for active citizenship.

Why the Change Matters

According to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the reform is long overdue. They both praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the return of History.

The Ministers emphasised that History is not only a record of the past but also a foundation for responsible and patriotic citizenship. They described the reform as a gift that reconnects children with their roots while inspiring pride, unity, and commitment to Nigeria’s development.

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Government’s Next Steps

To ensure smooth implementation, the Ministry will:

• Roll out the revised History curriculum.
• Retrain teachers across the country.
• Provide updated teaching materials and resources.
• Strengthen monitoring and supervision for effective delivery.

A Look Back

This reform reverses a decision made in 2009 under former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, when History was removed from schools. At the time, the government argued that:

• Students were avoiding the subject due to limited job prospects.
• There was a shortage of qualified teachers.

Later, in 2022, the Ministry under Adamu Adamu began preparations for its return. Teachers were trained at the basic education level in Abuja. Now, the full rollout marks a complete comeback.

Final Note

The return of History is widely celebrated as a priceless gift to Nigeria. It not only strengthens national identity but also builds patriotism, civic responsibility, and unity. With this reform, Nigeria follows global best practices by using History education as a tool for nation-building.

Credit: Allschool, Allcbts

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