The Federal Ministry of Education has denied approving a “Living History” textbook excluding Igbo content.
In a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the Ministry clarified that “Living History” is NOT an approved textbook and has not been recommended for use in any Nigerian school.
The Ministry explained that 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 for assessment under the national curriculum. Consequently, it was not recommended by NERDC and does not appear on the officially approved list of textbooks for History by Federal Ministry of Education.
It said following consultations with the leadership of NERDC and a review of the officially endorsed list of textbooks aligned with the new curriculum, it has been confirmed that “Living History” does not form part of the approved instructional materials for nationwide use.
The Ministry therefore, urged parents, teachers, school proprietors, administrators, and the general public to disregard all speculation, misinformation, and emotionally charged narratives surrounding the book and to refrain from its use in schools.
It emphasized that the use of unapproved instructional materials undermines curriculum standards and may adversely affect teaching quality 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 public is encouraged to support responsible discourse, reject divisive misinformation, and verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels before adoption or use.
For verified information on approved textbooks, stakeholders are advised to consult NERDC.
“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” the statement noted.
