The Federal Government has announced a new reusable textbook policy aimed at lowering the cost of education for families and improving access to learning materials across public schools in Nigeria.
The policy was unveiled by education authorities as part of broader reforms designed to address rising education expenses and ensure sustainability in the management of instructional resources. Under the initiative, textbooks provided to students in public schools will be designed, distributed, and managed for use across multiple academic sessions rather than being replaced annually.
Officials explained that the approach is intended to ease the financial burden on parents, particularly low-income households, while promoting a culture of care and responsibility among students. The reusable textbooks are expected to meet approved curriculum standards and be durable enough to serve several cohorts of learners.
According to the Federal Government, the policy will also help reduce wastage and improve efficiency in education spending. Authorities noted that significant public funds are allocated yearly to textbook procurement, and the new system would allow those resources to be redirected toward other critical needs such as teacher training, school infrastructure, and learning technology.
Education stakeholders involved in the rollout stated that clear guidelines would be issued to schools on textbook handling, storage, and accountability to ensure the materials remain in good condition. Monitoring mechanisms are also expected to be introduced to track compliance and effectiveness across states and school systems.
The policy forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen basic education delivery, improve learning outcomes, and align Nigeria’s education system with cost-effective global practices. Government officials emphasised that the initiative would be implemented in collaboration with state governments, school administrators, and development partners.
The announcement has generated discussion among parents, teachers, and education advocates, with many welcoming the cost-saving potential while calling for proper implementation to prevent shortages and misuse.
Further details on implementation timelines and coverage are expected to be released as the policy moves from announcement to execution.
