The federal government has proposed a significant overhaul of the Nigerian education system, moving towards a 12-year basic education model.

This was announced by Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the 2025 Extraordinary National Council on Education meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

This shift aims to replace the current 6-3-3-4 system, explained the minister.

The new model will integrate Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) into a single, uninterrupted 12-year basic education phase.

“By subsuming secondary education into basic education, we will ensure a standardised curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation,” Minister Alausa stated.

“This will also facilitate early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and employment.”

The proposed reforms also include raising the minimum entry age for tertiary institutions to 16 years.

The minister emphasised the potential benefits of this reform, stating, “Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardised curriculum that is uniformly implemented across the nation.

This will also facilitate early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and employment.”

He further highlighted that the new model aligns with global best practices and will contribute to improved educational outcomes and increased competitiveness for Nigerian students on the international stage.

The successful implementation of this reform will require significant efforts in policy reform, infrastructure expansion, teacher training and recruitment, funding, and partnerships.