Nigeria Scraps 6-3-3-4 System, Adopts 12-Year Basic Education Model

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Government has announced the abolition of the long-standing 6-3-3-4 system, in favour of a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.

This initiative, announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at Thursday’s extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) meeting in Abuja, aims to align Nigeria with global best practices and improve educational outcomes.

The new 12-4 system combines Junior and Senior Secondary Schools into a single basic education structure, extending compulsory education until the age of sixteen.

Dr. Alausa believes that removing financial and systemic barriers to secondary school completion will address high dropout rates.

The NCE, the highest policymaking body in the education sector, is expected to formally approve the changes.

The Minister emphasised the reform’s benefits, including the creation of a nationwide standardised curriculum, increased early exposure to vocational and entrepreneurial skills, and improved alignment with international standards.

He claimed that a longer period of compulsory education would better prepare students for higher education or direct entry into the workforce.

“Many developed countries have successfully implemented similar 12-year basic education systems,” Dr. Alausa stated.

“This reform will improve educational outcomes while also increasing Nigeria’s global competitiveness.”

He also emphasised the expected positive economic and social outcomes, such as reduced child labour and social vices associated with early school dropouts.

The transition to the new system will take a multifaceted approach that includes policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, extensive teacher training and recruitment, secure funding mechanisms, strategic partnerships, and curriculum improvement.

Education commissioners from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) attended the meeting, as did relevant agencies and international development partners.

The government is also requesting approval from the NCE to raise the minimum entry age for tertiary institutions to 16.