The Federal Government has announced the abolition of all Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary Schools in Nigeria, replacing them with a mandatory 12-year continuous basic education system, after which students can pursue higher education.
This move aims to replace the current 6-3-3-4 education system with a 12-4 structure. Additionally, the government has proposed that the National Council on Education approve 16 years as the minimum age for entry into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this decision on Thursday in Abuja during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education meeting, which is the highest policy-making body in the education sector.
The meeting was attended by education commissioners from the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as various agencies, parastatals, and development partners.
Dr. Alausa explained that integrating secondary education into basic education would allow students to benefit from uninterrupted learning until they turn 16.
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He emphasized that the new policy aligns with global best practices and is designed to reduce dropout rates by addressing financial and systemic barriers that currently prevent students from completing secondary education.
“Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation,” Alausa said.
“This will also facilitate early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and employment.
“Many developed nations have implemented similar systems where basic education spans 12 years, ensuring that students acquire foundational knowledge before specializing at tertiary levels.
“This reform also aligns Nigeria’s education system with international standards, fostering better educational outcomes and global competitiveness.”
He said it will also lead to economic and social impact, adding that “Educated youth contribute significantly to national development.
“When students receive an extended period of compulsory education, they are better equipped to join the workforce with relevant skills. This reform will also reduce child labor and other social vices resulting from premature school dropouts.”
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