The Federal Government has announced the reintroduction of Nigerian History as a compulsory subject in the nation’s basic education curriculum, nearly 15 years after it was removed. Under the new policy, pupils from Primary 1 to Junior Secondary School 3 will study History continuously, covering topics such as Nigeria’s origins, cultural heritage, geography, political development, colonial rule, and post-independence governance.

For students in Senior Secondary School (SSS1–3), a newly developed subject Civic and Heritage Studies will combine elements of History with Civic Education to better instill values of citizenship, unity, and heritage.

Officials from the Federal Ministry of Education described the reform as a “priceless gift to the nation,” aimed at strengthening national identity, patriotism, and respect for civic institutions. To support implementation, the government is rolling out revised curricula, teacher retraining programs, and providing necessary learning resources.

The removal of History from basic education came around 2009, when it ceased to be a core subject, a change that many critics say led to gaps in students’ understanding of their past and national identity. This reintroduction signals a deliberate effort by the government to reconnect young Nigerians to their roots while enhancing unity and responsible citizenship.