Minister Proposes 12-Year Basic Education Plan

The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has proposed the introduction of 12 Years Basic Education in the Nigerian Education System.

This means the integration of secondary education into basic education spanning, 12 years.

Nigeria’s current education system, introduced since 1982, follows the 1-6-3-3-4 structure (in principle 1-9-3-4), comprising: One year of ECCDE Nine years of Basic (primary and junior secondary education), three years of senior secondary education and four years of tertiary education (depending on the discipline).

Alausa during the opening session of the 2025 extra Ordinary National Council On Education (NCE) Meeting in Abuja on Thursday, stated that the proposal aligned with global best practices and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

The minister noted that extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized 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 said.

The minister explained that while the structure has served the nation for decades, it has also presented challenges, particularly in ensuring retention and completion for the learners.

He added that the transition from junior to senior secondary school often leads to a significant dropout rate due to financial constraints, writing of transitional examinations, poor infrastructure and limited access to quality learning.

He added that the new initiative will reduce dropout rates by eliminating financial and systemic barriers that currently prevent students from completing secondary education.

“Some of the issues that informed convening the Extraordinary NCE for discussion include: A. Introduction of the 12 Years of Basic Education in the Nigerian Education System

“Distinguished members of Council, guests, esteemed educators, policymakers, and all stakeholders in the Nigerian education sector, it is with great honor that I stand before you today to discuss a transformative proposal in our education system—the integration of secondary education into basic education to span 12 years.

“This initiative aligns with global best practices and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all,” he said.

The National Council On Education, which is the highest policy making body, was attended by states Commissioners of Education from the 36 states.

Minister Proposes 12-Year Basic Education Plan is first published on The Whistler Newspaper