The Federal Government has launched a nationwide learning assessment to evaluate the literacy, numeracy and cognitive skills of pupils across Nigeria as part of efforts to improve learning outcomes in schools.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Friday after monitoring the National Learning Assessment at Government Secondary School, Kuje; Government Junior Secondary School, Kuje Central; and Topaz Model Primary School, Kango, in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the minister, the assessment covers Primary Three, Primary Five, Junior Secondary School 2 (JSS2) and Senior Secondary School 2 (SSS2) students, focusing on English Language, Mathematics, Basic Science and non-cognitive skills.
“We are conducting this National Learning Assessment to determine the level of understanding of our students in key subjects and to measure their literacy, numeracy and cognitive development,” Alausa said.
He explained that the exercise is part of the Nigerian Education Sector Renewal Initiative and will serve as a benchmark for measuring learning outcomes every three years.
Alausa noted that Nigeria has not consistently conducted national learning assessments, adding that the last assessment by the Federal Ministry of Education was held in 2019, while the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) conducted another in 2023.
“Learning assessment should be conducted every three years. We have now put robust processes in place, and UBEC has been directed to make dedicated budgetary provisions so the assessment becomes a regular national exercise beginning from 2029,” he said.
The minister expressed concern over the country’s learning poverty, saying many Nigerian children are unable to read age-appropriate texts by the age of 10.
He added that the assessment would help identify learning gaps and guide targeted interventions to improve educational outcomes nationwide.
According to Alausa, the ministry has also harmonised different assessment models into a single National Learning Assessment framework to ensure consistency in tracking students’ progress.
“We have customised different learning assessments into one standardised National Learning Assessment. This will allow us to consistently measure progress as we transform the education sector and ensure every Nigerian child receives quality education,” he said.
Speaking after inspecting public and private schools in Kuje, the minister commended the learning environment in public schools within the FCT, describing them as clean and well maintained.
He also acknowledged the role of private schools in expanding access to education while calling for stronger regulation to ensure they meet minimum standards.
The FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, described the nationwide assessment as a major step towards improving learning outcomes.
Hayyo said the FCT Administration has renovated more than 120 public schools and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s education system.
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