Zainab Suleiman Okino, a prominent education analyst, has warned that the Nigerian government's new textbook ranking system poses a significant threat to both the publishing industry and the quality of learning in schools. In a recent opinion piece, she argued that the policy, which mandates schools to select textbooks from a government-compiled list, stifles competition and innovation among publishers, ultimately harming students' educational outcomes.
How the Ranking System Works
The ranking system, introduced by the Federal Ministry of Education, evaluates textbooks based on criteria such as curriculum alignment, accuracy, and pedagogical approach. Schools are strongly encouraged—and in some cases required—to choose only those books that appear on the approved list. While the government claims this ensures quality control, Okino contends that it creates a monopoly for a few large publishers and sidelines smaller, independent houses that often produce culturally relevant and locally adapted materials.
Impact on Publishers and Authors
According to Okino, the ranking system has already led to a sharp decline in the number of new textbooks being published. Small publishers, lacking the resources to navigate the complex approval process, are being forced out of the market. This reduces diversity in educational materials and limits the voices of Nigerian authors. “The future of publishing in Nigeria is at risk if we continue down this path,” she wrote. “We are creating a system where only a handful of publishers can survive, and that is dangerous for intellectual freedom.”
Consequences for Students and Teachers
The policy also restricts teachers' ability to choose the best resources for their classrooms. Teachers, who are best positioned to know what works for their students, are left with limited options. Okino noted that this undermines pedagogical flexibility and can lead to a one-size-fits-all approach to education. Furthermore, students may miss out on innovative learning materials that do not make the cut. She cited a survey indicating that 68% of teachers reported dissatisfaction with the range of textbooks available under the new system.
The Government's Perspective
Proponents of the ranking system argue that it helps standardize education and ensures that all students have access to high-quality materials. They point to instances where poorly researched or outdated textbooks were used in schools, harming students' learning. However, Okino counters that the current approach is too rigid and that the government should instead focus on providing guidelines and support for publishers to improve quality, rather than imposing a restrictive list.
A Call for Reform
Okino calls for a more collaborative approach that involves educators, publishers, and policymakers. She suggests that the government should create a transparent evaluation process that encourages innovation and includes multiple stakeholders. Additionally, she recommends piloting the ranking system in a few states before a national rollout, to assess its impact on learning outcomes. “We must prioritize the needs of students and teachers over administrative convenience,” she concluded. “The future of our education system depends on it.”
