The Federal Ministry of Education has disassociated itself from a history textbook titled Living History following allegations that it excludes content related to the Igbo ethnic group, saying the book was never approved for use in Nigerian schools.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the government clarified that the textbook was not submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) for evaluation, a mandatory requirement for all instructional materials under the national curriculum.

Folasade said because the book was neither reviewed nor assessed by NERDC, it could not have been recommended or included among officially approved history textbooks for schools nationwide.

According to the ministry, consultations with NERDC and checks on endorsed learning materials confirmed that Living History is not listed among authorised educational resources.

The ministry warned parents, teachers and school administrators against the use of unapproved textbooks, noting that reliance on unverified materials could undermine curriculum standards and negatively affect teaching and learning outcomes.

It stressed that all government-approved textbooks are developed to reflect Nigeria’s cultural diversity, shared history and national values, while promoting inclusiveness and unity.

The ministry also urged the public to refrain from spreading divisive claims and to always verify the approval status of educational materials through official channels, particularly NERDC.

“Education thrives on truth. Unity thrives on understanding,” the statement added.