The Federal Government has announced a new education policy banning the use of disposable workbooks in schools, a move aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents while promoting sustainability and improved learning outcomes across the country.
The policy was disclosed in a press release issued on January 9, 2026 by the Federal Ministry of Education, jointly signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the ministers said the government was concerned about the rising cost of education and the recurring expenses parents face every academic session.
According to them, the new framework prioritises standardised and durable textbooks designed to last between four and six years, making it possible for books to be reused by other students and even shared among siblings.
“The policy expressly prohibits the bundling of disposable workbooks with textbooks, a practice that has forced parents to buy new learning materials every year without any significant improvement in content,” the ministers stated.
“This reform will significantly lower recurring costs for families while also reducing waste and supporting environmental sustainability.”
They added that the policy also addresses the issue of frequent cosmetic textbook revisions, which often compel parents to purchase new editions annually. Under the new guidelines, textbook revisions will only be approved when there are clear and substantive improvements in content, with limits placed on the number of approved textbooks per subject and grade in line with international best practices.
As part of broader reforms, the ministers noted that the Federal Government has introduced a uniform academic calendar to ensure consistency in teaching, learning, and school planning nationwide.
Graduation ceremonies have also been streamlined, with only pupils and students completing Primary 6, JSS3, and SSS3 allowed to hold such events.
They reaffirmed that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, NERDC, will continue to oversee the assessment, selection, and quality assurance of instructional materials.
The Federal Ministry of Education stressed its commitment to equity, access, and the provision of high quality learning materials for all Nigerian students.
