By Nworisa Michael
The Federal Ministry of Education has denied claims that it approved a history textbook alleged to have excluded Igbo content, clarifying that the publication is not authorised for use in any Nigerian school.
In an official statement, in Abuja by the Director of Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, explained that the book in question, titled “Living History,” was never submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the statutory body responsible for evaluating and approving instructional materials under Nigeria’s national curriculum.
According to the Ministry, consultations with NERDC leadership and a review of the council’s approved textbook list confirmed that the publication does not feature among officially endorsed learning materials nationwide.
The Ministry cautioned parents, teachers, school owners, and administrators against relying on unverified information or emotionally driven narratives, noting that the use of unapproved textbooks could undermine curriculum standards and negatively affect teaching and learning outcomes.
It further reaffirmed that all approved textbooks in Nigeria are required to align strictly with the national curriculum while reflecting the country’s cultural diversity, shared history, and core national values.
Members of the public were advised to verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels before adoption, stressing the importance of responsible discourse and fact-based engagement in matters relating to education and national unity.