FG disowns ‘Living History’ textbook, says it is not approved for Nigerian schools

The Federal Ministry of Education has disowned a History textbook titled Living History, describing reports and public commentary surrounding the book as misleading and inaccurate. In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Ministry stated clearly and unequivocally that Living History is not an approved textbook and has not been recommended for use in any Nigerian school by the Federal Ministry of Education.

The clarification follows public discussions and claims suggesting that the textbook had been approved for use in schools, as well as allegations that it excluded Igbo content.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the book was never submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the statutory body responsible for the review, evaluation, and approval of instructional materials in line with the national curriculum,” the statement said.

The Ministry explained that because the book was not submitted to NERDC for assessment, it was neither reviewed nor recommended and does not appear on the officially approved list of History textbooks issued by the Federal Ministry of Education.

According to the statement, consultations with the leadership of NERDC and a review of the officially endorsed textbooks aligned with the new curriculum further confirmed that Living History is not among the approved instructional materials for nationwide use.

The Ministry therefore urged parents, teachers, school proprietors, administrators, and the general public to disregard speculation, misinformation, and emotionally charged narratives surrounding the book and to refrain from using it in schools.

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It warned that the use of unapproved instructional materials undermines curriculum standards and could negatively affect the quality of teaching and learning outcomes.

“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 Ministry said.

The Federal Ministry of Education also called on the public to support responsible discourse, reject divisive misinformation, and verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels before adoption or use.

Stakeholders seeking verified information on approved textbooks were advised to consult NERDC, the agency responsible for curriculum development and textbook approval.

“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” the statement added.

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