The Federal Ministry of Education has denied approving the controversial Living History textbook, amid claims that it excludes Igbo historical content, clarifying that the book is not authorised for use in any Nigerian school.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the ministry said the textbook was never submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the statutory body responsible for reviewing, evaluating, and approving instructional materials under Nigeria’s national curriculum.
As a result, the ministry said Living History was neither reviewed nor recommended by NERDC and does not appear on the official list of approved History textbooks for use in schools nationwide.
According to the statement, consultations with NERDC leadership and a review of officially endorsed instructional materials confirmed that the book does not form part of the approved resources for teaching History in Nigerian schools.
The ministry urged parents, teachers, school proprietors, and administrators to disregard speculation, misinformation, and what it described as “emotionally charged narratives” surrounding the textbook, warning that the use of 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 said.
Folasade further called on the public to support responsible discourse, reject divisive misinformation, and verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels before adoption.
“The public is encouraged to consult NERDC for verified information on approved textbooks. Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” the statement added.
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