The Federal Government has unveiled a new national policy aimed at regulating non-state schools across the country, setting out standards for infrastructure, teacher qualifications, curriculum delivery, and stricter accountability measures.
Speaking during the official launch of the policy document in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a significant milestone in reforming Nigeria’s education sector.
He noted that the policy is a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s National Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), which positions education as central to the nation’s development goals.
“Non-state schools play an essential role in bridging the gap between the demand and supply of quality education in Nigeria,” Alausa said. “This policy provides clear guidance to ensure these schools contribute effectively to national educational outcomes.”
Senior Education Adviser at the British Council, Ian Attfield, praised the Nigerian government for addressing the challenges facing millions of learners who remain underserved by the public education system.
He highlighted the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and international partners in the area of non-state education, recalling research that drew global focus to the proliferation of unregistered private schools across the country.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ronke Soyombo, Registrar of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), revealed that a recent survey conducted by the council found that over 85 percent of individuals working in the teaching profession are not registered.
She stressed that the new policy would enforce accountability, ensuring non-state schools operate transparently and adhere to professional standards.
The policy is expected to streamline the regulation of private and other non-state educational institutions, ultimately improving learning outcomes and safeguarding the interests of Nigerian students.