February 18, 2025
The Nigerian government is considering an education reform that will integrate secondary school into basic education, creating a 12-year uninterrupted learning model.
Speaking at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council on Education Meeting in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, stated that the new plan would allow students to have continuous learning up to age 16 without disruption.
Current System (9-3-4):
Proposed System (12-4):
Mr. Alausa emphasized that this system aligns with global best practices and will:
The proposal is under discussion at the National Council on Education (NCE) meeting, which includes education commissioners from all 36 states, the FCT, heads of agencies, and international organizations.
Mr. Alausa is also proposing 16 years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions.
Previously, former Education Minister Tahir Mamman suggested 18 years as the minimum age, but after concerns were raised, the policy was adjusted to 16 years for 2024 admissions.
Now, Mr. Alausa has formally set the age limit at 16, ensuring students are mature enough for tertiary education while maintaining flexibility for those completing the proposed 12-year basic education system.
