By Onilede Titi Faith
The Federal Government has introduced a new regulatory policy for non-state schools in Nigeria to address concerns over quality, safety, and standards amid a surge in private education providers.
Unveiled by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa in Abuja, the policy forms part of the National Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), and sets national minimum standards for private, faith-based, tutorial, and home schools.
It covers teacher qualifications, curriculum compliance, infrastructure, and registration requirements.
Between 2017 and 2022, non-state schools reportedly grew by 39%, far outpacing public school growth.
To support the policy, compliant schools will benefit from government grants and UK-funded vouchers to boost inclusion, especially for out-of-school children.
Dr. Alausa noted that while non-state schools expand access, unregulated growth has led to quality gaps.
“Regulation ensures accountability across the system,” he said.
The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), pledged to enforce teacher certification nationwide.
The policy takes effect in the 2025–2026 academic session.
