The Federal Ministry of Education has debunked widespread reports and public discussions suggesting that a History textbook titled “Living History” has been approved for use in Nigerian schools.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, 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.

According to the Ministry, 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.

“Consequently, the textbook was neither assessed nor recommended by NERDC and does not appear on the official list of approved History textbooks,” the statement clarified.

Following consultations with the leadership of NERDC and a thorough review of the endorsed textbook list aligned with the revised national curriculum, the Ministry confirmed that ‘Living History’ is not an approved instructional material for nationwide use.

The Ministry therefore urged parents, teachers, school proprietors, administrators, and other education stakeholders to disregard misinformation and refrain from using unapproved textbooks in schools.

It warned that the use of unapproved instructional materials undermines curriculum standards and could negatively affect learning outcomes across the education sector.

The Ministry further emphasized that all approved textbooks reflect Nigeria’s cultural diversity, shared history, and national values, and advised stakeholders to always verify approvals through official NERDC channels.

“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding.”

Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations
Federal Ministry of Education