Primary education is the foundation of learning in Nigeria. It equips children with the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in further education and life. The Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), outlines a comprehensive list of compulsory and essential subjects for all primary schools. These subjects aim to build literacy, numeracy, life skills, and national values in young learners.
This guide outlines all the required subjects in Nigerian primary schools as of 2025, including their objectives and why they are important in a child’s early academic journey.
Compulsory and Essential Subjects in Primary Schools (Basic 1–6)
The Nigerian primary school curriculum is structured to reflect core, foundation, and enrichment subjects. Below is the list of compulsory subjects every pupil is expected to take:
1. English Language
- Why it’s important: It builds communication skills, reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities.
- Skills Developed: Grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, oral skills, and creative writing.
2. Mathematics
- Why it’s important: It develops logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
- Skills Developed: Number operations, measurements, geometry, fractions, and data handling.
3. Basic Science and Technology (BST)
- Why it’s important: It lays the foundation for future science and tech-related learning.
- Components Include:
- Basic Science
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Physical and Health Education
- Basic Technology
4. Social Studies
- Why it’s important: Teaches societal norms, civic duties, and understanding of one’s environment.
- Skills Developed: Civic engagement, culture appreciation, national values, and social responsibility.
5. Civic Education
- Why it’s important: Instills moral values, patriotism, and understanding of rights and responsibilities.
- Skills Developed: Good behavior, ethics, and national consciousness.
6. Cultural and Creative Arts (CCA)
- Why it’s important: Develops creativity and appreciation of Nigerian arts and culture.
- Includes: Music, drama, dance, crafts, and drawing.
7. Nigerian Languages
- Why it’s important: Encourages cultural identity and communication in local languages.
- Common Languages Taught: Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, or other approved indigenous languages depending on the region.
8. Religious Studies
- Options Include:
- Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
- Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
- Why it’s important: Builds spiritual and moral values in children based on their faith.
9. Arabic Language (Optional but recommended where applicable)
- Why it’s important: For students in Islamic-focused areas or schools offering it as part of religious education.
10. Pre-Vocational Studies
- Why it’s important: Prepares pupils for real-life skills.
- Includes: Home Economics and Agriculture.
11. French Language (Optional/Enrichment Subject)
- Why it’s important: Promotes multilingualism and global exposure.
- Note: Becoming more integrated into urban schools’ curriculum.
Subject Distribution by Classes
Lower Basic (Primary 1–3):
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Basic Science and Technology
- Civic Education
- Religious Studies
- Nigerian Language
- Cultural and Creative Arts
- Physical and Health Education
- Social Studies
- Pre-Vocational Studies (introductory level)
Middle to Upper Basic (Primary 4–6):
- All the above subjects continue with greater depth.
- Introduction of ICT, Vocational Studies, and in some schools, Entrepreneurship.
- Pupils are prepared for Common Entrance Exams.
Key Features of the Nigerian Primary Curriculum (2025)
- Thematic and Spiral Curriculum: Topics are repeated with increasing complexity.
- Child-Centered Learning: Focus on participation, creativity, and inquiry-based learning.
- Assessment Integration: Continuous Assessment (CA) and termly exams are part of evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many subjects are taught in Nigerian primary schools?
A: Pupils typically take between 9 and 12 subjects, including both core and optional ones.
Q2: Is French language compulsory in primary schools?
A: No, French is an optional subject. However, it is increasingly encouraged in urban and private schools.
Q3: Can a school teach more subjects than listed in the national curriculum?
A: Yes, private schools may include extra subjects like Coding, Robotics, Chinese, etc., but must ensure the core NERDC subjects are taught.
Q4: Is Religious Studies compulsory?
A: Yes, but students take the version aligned with their faith (CRS or IRS).
Q5: Are Nigerian languages compulsory in all schools?
A: Yes, pupils are expected to learn at least one local language, based on their state/region.
Q6: What’s the most important subject in primary school?
A: English and Mathematics are foundational and are considered the most critical for early learning.
Q7: Are computer classes included in primary school?
A: Yes, under Basic Science and Technology, ICT is a major component introduced from Primary 4 upward.
Q8: What age do pupils start primary school in Nigeria?
A: Typically, children start at age 6, following 2–3 years of pre-primary education.
Q9: Who regulates the Nigerian primary school curriculum?
A: The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) sets and updates the curriculum.
Q10: Is vocational training part of primary education?
A: Yes, through Pre-Vocational Studies, pupils are exposed to practical skills like farming, simple crafts, and home management.
Conclusion
The Nigerian primary school system in 2025 emphasizes a balanced education, covering literacy, numeracy, science, moral instruction, and creativity. By following the NERDC-approved subjects, schools can effectively nurture students to become responsible, skilled, and knowledgeable citizens. Whether in public or private schools, ensuring children are exposed to these core subjects is the first step toward lifelong success.
