Federal Government Denies Approving History Textbook Without Igbo Section
The Federal Ministry of Education has issued a strong rebuttal against claims that it approved the "Living History" textbook, which allegedly excluded content related to the Igbo ethnic group. In an official statement released on February 3, 2026, ministry officials categorically denied any authorization of the controversial educational material.
Official Clarification on Textbook Approval Status
According to the Ministry's Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the "Living History" textbook was never submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) for review. The NERDC serves as the statutory body responsible for evaluating and approving all instructional materials under Nigeria's national curriculum framework.
Folasade emphasized that the book does not appear on any official list of approved History textbooks recommended for use in Nigerian educational institutions. This confirmation came after thorough consultations with NERDC leadership and comprehensive reviews of all officially endorsed instructional resources.
Warning Against Misinformation and Unapproved Materials
The Ministry issued a stern warning to various educational stakeholders, including:
- Parents and guardians
- Teachers and educators
- School proprietors and administrators
- Educational materials distributors
Officials urged these groups to disregard what they described as "emotionally charged narratives" and misinformation circulating about the textbook. The Ministry stressed that using unapproved educational materials could seriously undermine curriculum standards and negatively impact teaching and learning outcomes across the country.
Commitment to Cultural Diversity and National Values
In their statement, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to educational materials that reflect Nigeria's rich cultural diversity. "All approved textbooks strictly comply with the national curriculum and reflect Nigeria's rich cultural diversity, shared history, and core national values, while promoting inclusivity, balance, and unity," the official statement noted.
The Ministry explained that properly vetted instructional materials undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure they represent all major ethnic groups and promote national cohesion through balanced historical narratives.
Call for Responsible Public Discourse and Verification
Folasade appealed to the Nigerian public to engage in responsible discourse regarding educational matters and to reject divisive misinformation. The Ministry encouraged stakeholders to verify the approval status of any educational materials through official channels before adoption.
"The public is encouraged to consult NERDC for verified information on approved textbooks. Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding," the statement emphasized, highlighting the importance of factual information in educational matters.
Related Context: Scholarship Program Clarification
The Ministry's statement comes amid other educational clarifications, including recent denials regarding Nigerian students in Morocco. Education authorities had previously rejected reports suggesting abandonment of scholarship beneficiaries, explaining that fiscal adjustments were being resolved through inter-ministerial engagements.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa confirmed that no new bilateral scholarship awards had been issued since October 2025, following a policy assessment that determined Nigerian institutions now possess adequate capacity to deliver similar academic programs locally.
The Ministry's proactive communication aims to address misinformation and ensure transparency in educational policy implementation across Nigeria.
