Nigeria’s Education Ministry denies approving “Living History” textbook, urging public to verify official NERDC materials amid Igbo content claims

The Federal Ministry of Education has denied approving the controversial “Living History” textbook, amid criticism over the alleged exclusion of Igbo content.

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In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry, through its Director of Press and Public Relations Boriowo Folasade, clarified that the book has never been authorised for use in Nigerian schools.

The ministry confirmed that “Living History” was never submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) for review.

NERDC is the statutory body responsible for evaluating and approving instructional materials in line with the national curriculum.

“As a result, the book was neither recommended by NERDC nor included on the official list of approved History textbooks,” the statement said.

Folasade urged parents, teachers, school proprietors, and administrators to disregard speculation and misinformation surrounding the book.

The ministry warned that using unapproved materials could undermine curriculum standards and negatively affect 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 statement added.

The ministry called on the public to verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels and consult NERDC for accurate information.

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“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” Folasade emphasised.