The Federal Government has unveiled a new policy to regulate and improve private schools.
It aims to raise standards in infrastructure, teaching quality, and overall school accountability nationwide.
The Federal Government has introduced a new national policy for non-state (private) schools aimed at improving infrastructure, teacher qualifications, curriculum standards, and accountability.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the new policy on Wednesday in Abuja, describing it as a major step in reforming Nigeria’s education system. He said the policy is part of the broader National Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), a key project under President Bola Tinubu’s administration that sees education as vital to the country’s future.
Dr. Alausa stressed that private schools play a big role in helping to meet the increasing demand for education across Nigeria. He said this policy would ensure that such schools follow clear standards and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Speaking at the event, Ian Attfield, Senior Education Adviser at the British Council, praised Nigeria for taking steps to support learners who are often left out by public schools. He recalled how past research highlighted the rise of informal and unregistered private schools in the country and pushed for more attention to their regulation.
Dr. Ronke Soyombo, Registrar of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), revealed that a recent survey found that more than 85 percent of individuals teaching in schools are not registered professionals. She noted that the new policy would require non-state schools to improve performance and operate more transparently.
The government says this move is to ensure all children, regardless of where they go to school, get quality education in a safe and well-managed environment.
