The Federal Government has announced the abolition of Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) and introduced a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model. Under this system, students will undergo continuous learning for 12 years before becoming eligible for higher education.
This reform marks the transition from Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system to a new 12-4 structure. Additionally, the government is seeking approval from the National Council on Education (NCE) to establish 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during the 2025 extraordinary NCE meeting. The NCE, recognized as the highest policy-making body in the education sector, convened with commissioners for education from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as representatives from relevant agencies, parastatals, and development partners.
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Alausa explained that integrating secondary education into the basic education framework would provide students with uninterrupted learning until the age of 16. He emphasized that the new policy aligns with global best practices and is designed to curb dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers that hinder students from completing secondary education.
“Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum nationwide,” Alausa stated. “It will also facilitate early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for both higher education and the workforce.”
The Minister noted that many developed nations have adopted similar models, ensuring students acquire a strong foundational knowledge before specializing at the tertiary level. He added that the reform aims to enhance Nigeria’s education system, improving both educational outcomes and global competitiveness.
Beyond academics, Alausa highlighted the broader economic and social benefits of the policy. “Educated youth contribute significantly to national development. With an extended period of compulsory education, students will enter the workforce equipped with relevant skills. This reform will also help reduce child labour and other social issues linked to premature school dropouts,” he said.
To ensure the successful implementation of the policy, he outlined key strategies, including policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher training and recruitment, increased funding and partnerships, and curriculum enhancement.
