BREAKING: Nigeria’s New Curriculum 2025 – Complete Subject List Every Parent Must Know (Primary to SS3)

Last Updated: September 14, 2025

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has officially released the comprehensive list of approved subjects for Nigeria’s new curriculum, marking a revolutionary change in the country’s education system. This complete guide covers all subjects from primary to senior secondary levels, effective from the 2025/2026 academic session.

What You Need to Know About Nigeria’s New Curriculum

The Federal Government, through NERDC Executive Secretary Professor Salisu Shehu, announced these curriculum reforms on September 8, 2025, as part of the National Education Sector Reform Initiatives (NESRI). The new system emphasizes digital literacy, trade skills, and practical education to make Nigerian students “future-ready.”

Key Changes in the New Curriculum:

Introduction of digital literacy from primary level
Mandatory trade subjects at all levels
Streamlined subject offerings to reduce academic overload
Phased implementation starting with Primary 1, Primary 4, JSS 1, and SS 1

Complete List of Approved Subjects by Level

Primary School Curriculum (Primary 1-6)

Primary 1-3 Subjects (9-10 Total Subjects)

Core Subjects:

English Studies
Mathematics
Nigerian Languages
Basic Science
Physical and Health Education
Religious Studies
Nigerian History
Social and Citizenship Studies
Cultural and Creative Arts

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Optional Subject:

Arabic

Primary 4-6 Subjects (11-13 Total Subjects)

Core Subjects (All Primary 1-3 subjects plus): 10. Basic Digital Literacy 11. Pre-vocational Studies

Optional Subjects:

French
Arabic

Junior Secondary School (JSS) Curriculum

JSS Subjects (12-14 Total Subjects)

Core Subjects:

English Studies
Mathematics
Nigerian Languages
Intermediate Science
Physical and Health Education
Digital Technologies
History
Cultural and Creative Arts

Trade Subjects (Choose from):

Solar Photovoltaic Installation
Fashion Design
Livestock Farming
Computer Hardware and GSM Repairs
Horticulture
Additional vocational options available

Senior Secondary School (SS) Curriculum

SS Compulsory Subjects (5 Mandatory)

English Language
General Mathematics
One Trade Subject (mandatory selection)
Citizenship and Heritage Studies
Digital Technologies

SS Elective Subjects (Choose Based on Career Path)

Science Track:

Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Further Mathematics
Agricultural Science
Computer Science

Arts/Humanities Track:

Literature in English
Government
Economics
Geography
History
Christian Religious Studies
Islamic Religious Studies

Commercial/Business Track:

Accounting
Commerce
Marketing
Office Practice
Business Management

Vocational/Technical Track:

Catering Craft
Auto Mechanics
Building Construction
Electrical Installation
Welding and Fabrication
Additional trade specializations

Implementation Timeline and Phases

2025/2026 Academic Session Launch

The curriculum rollout follows a three-year cycle approach:

Phase 1 (2025/2026):

Primary 1 students
Primary 4 students
JSS 1 students
SS 1 students

Subsequent Phases:

Gradual expansion to remaining classes
Complete transition over three academic years
Comprehensive teacher training programs

Benefits of Nigeria’s New Curriculum

1. Enhanced Digital Literacy

Digital Technologies as compulsory subject
Basic Digital Literacy from Primary 4
Preparation for digital economy careers

2. Practical Skills Development

Mandatory trade subjects at all levels
Focus on entrepreneurship and self-reliance
Industry-relevant skill acquisition

3. Reduced Academic Burden

Streamlined subject offerings
Elimination of redundant courses
Improved focus on core competencies

4. Future-Ready Education

Alignment with global educational trends
Emphasis on 21st-century skills
Career-oriented learning pathways

Challenges and Concerns

Infrastructure Requirements

Need for equipped computer laboratories
Workshop facilities for trade subjects
Internet connectivity across schools

Teacher Preparedness

Massive teacher retraining programs required
Recruitment of specialized instructors
Continuous professional development

Funding Considerations

Government budget allocation
Private sector partnerships
International development support

How Parents Can Prepare

1. School Selection

Verify school’s readiness for new curriculum
Check availability of required facilities
Confirm teacher qualification status

2. Home Support

Encourage digital literacy skills
Support practical learning activities
Stay updated on curriculum changes

3. Career Guidance

Understand new subject combinations
Explore emerging career opportunities
Plan for university admission requirements

Impact on University Admissions

JAMB and University Entry

New subject combinations for different courses
Digital Technologies may become prerequisite
Trade subjects could offer additional pathways

Professional Certifications

Integration with industry standards
Pathway to technical certifications
Enhanced employability prospects

State-by-State Implementation

Federal Schools

Immediate implementation across all states
Standardized curriculum delivery
Central monitoring and evaluation

State Schools

State government adoption required
Possible variations in implementation timeline
Local adaptation while maintaining core standards

Private Schools

Voluntary but encouraged adoption
Market-driven implementation
Innovation in curriculum delivery

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the old curriculum still be valid?

The transition is gradual, with current students completing their programs under the existing system while new entrants follow the reformed curriculum.

Are trade subjects really mandatory?

Yes, trade subjects are compulsory at all levels, ensuring every Nigerian student acquires practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

How will teachers adapt to the changes?

NERDC has planned comprehensive teacher training programs, with nationwide sensitization and capacity building initiatives.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s new curriculum represents a bold step toward educational modernization, emphasizing practical skills, digital literacy, and career readiness. While implementation challenges exist, the long-term benefits promise to better prepare Nigerian students for the demands of the 21st-century economy.

The success of these reforms will depend on sustained political will, adequate funding, and collaborative efforts from all education stakeholders. As the 2025/2026 academic session approaches, parents, teachers, and students must prepare for this transformative educational journey.

Stay Updated: For the latest information on Nigeria’s education reforms, follow official announcements from the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) and the Federal Ministry of Education.