FG Reduces Textbook Assessment Fees, Orders Refunds

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a reduction in fees for textbook assessment and ranking, as stated by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). The assessment fee has been lowered from N2,000 to N1,500 per page, while the ranking fee for textbooks has decreased from N1 million to N750,000 per title.

This decision, disclosed in Abuja by NERDC's Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, aims to alleviate the financial burden on publishers and authors involved in the government's textbook evaluation process. Publishers who previously paid the higher fees will receive refunds for the excess amounts, with refund procedures to be announced soon.

The new fee structure is effective immediately, coinciding with preparations for the National Textbook Ranking System, which will be implemented in September 2026. This system will require textbooks to be assessed, approved, and ranked by NERDC before being recommended for classroom use, thereby enhancing the quality of learning materials in Nigerian schools.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the reform aims to ensure access to quality instructional materials that meet educational standards.