FG scraps 6-3-3-4 system, introduces 12-year basic education model
By Tosin Brown
The Federal Government has announced the abolition of the existing 6-3-3-4 education system, replacing it with a 12-4 model that introduces 12 years of uninterrupted basic education before students can proceed to tertiary institutions.
With this reform, Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) will be integrated into a single, continuous learning phase. The government is also proposing a minimum entry age of 16 years for tertiary education.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during the 2025 extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting in Abuja. The council, the highest policymaking body in the education sector, convened with education commissioners from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside key stakeholders and development partners.
Alausa explained that the move aligns Nigeria’s education system with global standards and aims to reduce dropout rates by removing financial and systemic barriers that hinder students from completing their education.
“Extending basic education to 12 years will ensure a standardized curriculum across the country, allowing early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills. This will better prepare students for both higher education and employment,” he stated.
He emphasized that many developed nations follow a similar model, ensuring that students acquire foundational knowledge before specializing in tertiary institutions.
The reform is also expected to enhance educational outcomes, foster global competitiveness, and reduce child labor and social vices associated with premature school dropouts.
To implement the new structure, the government plans to focus on policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, teacher training and recruitment, increased funding, and curriculum enhancements.
“This transformation will shape Nigeria’s future workforce by incorporating technical, vocational, and digital literacy skills from an early age,” Alausa added.
The minister emphasized the need for bold and strategic reforms in the education sector, stating that primary and secondary school management remains under the jurisdiction of state governments, while the Federal Government provides technical and financial support.
“Creating a more inclusive, equitable, and globally competitive education system requires us to embrace this reform. It is a necessary step toward securing the future of our children and ensuring the prosperity of our nation,” he concluded.
