Education and Schools in Nigeria

Education in Nigeria is highly prized and considered by Nigerians to be the key to your future. Despite this, the government-run school system still faces significant challenges. State-sponsored schools lag behind international standards, grappling with staff shortages, outdated textbooks, and inadequate learning tools. 

If you’re an expat living in Nigeria, you’re likely to choose private international schools for your children, although homeschooling can be a practical alternative.

Public schools in Nigeria

Public schools in Nigeria face many challenges, mostly due to severe underfunding. While there have been improvements, many state schools still lack basic facilities like classrooms, libraries, and learning materials. This shortage makes it difficult for students to get the quality education they deserve.

The Nigerian government has taken steps to address these issues, such as increasing the education budget and focusing on teacher training and curriculum updates. Still, many families who can afford it prefer to send their children to private or international schools, which tend to offer better facilities and resources.

Education is compulsory during the basic educational phase, which starts at the age of six and lasts for nine years. This covers six years of primary education and three years of junior secondary education. After that, the three years of senior secondary education are optional.

Useful links

• Federal Ministry of Education
• Universal Basic Education Commission

International schools in Nigeria

You may be surprised by the number of international school options available in Nigeria’s major urban centres, especially in cities like Abuja and Lagos. These schools are highly sought after by expat families and affluent Nigerians looking for a global standard of education. Rural areas struggle to offer the same calibre of schooling, but homeschooling or boarding school may be viable alternatives if you’re living far from the big cities.

Most international schools in Nigeria follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, ensuring your children are well-prepared for future studies anywhere in the world. The quality of education tends to be excellent, with schools offering cutting-edge facilities, advanced technology, and a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities like sports, arts, and community engagement. Your child won’t miss a beat during your time in Nigeria.

Fees and admission to international schools

As with most international schools, high-quality education in Nigeria comes with a price tag. Expect to budget not just for tuition but also for additional costs like school uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular programmes, and transport. 

Many international schools in Lagos and Abuja have seen fee increases due to rising operational costs. Be sure to discuss education subsidies or allowances in your employment package if you’re relocating for work. This can make a significant difference in covering these expenses.

The admissions process typically includes submitting an application, followed by interviews and assessments. Schools may require previous academic records, identification, and sometimes letters of recommendation. It’s a good idea to apply early, as spaces in top schools can fill up quickly.

Read more

• International Schools in Lagos

Special-needs education in Nigeria

Special-needs education in Nigeria is slowly becoming more inclusive, with efforts to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. Recent estimates suggest that around 10 percent of children with disabilities are enrolled in inclusive settings, although the level of integration varies widely between urban and rural areas. Urban schools, particularly international ones, tend to offer better resources for this.

Many international schools in Nigeria are leading the charge to provide support for students with special needs. These schools typically offer the best facilities, such as scribes, counselling services, assistant teachers, and access to assistive technology. However, the extent of support can vary greatly between schools, so it’s important to reach out directly to understand what each institution can offer your child.

Teacher training has also seen improvements, with more educators receiving specialised training to work with students who have disabilities. Continuous professional development programmes can help teachers stay up-to-date with the latest methodologies and tools, such as assistive technology.

That said, accessibility can still be a challenge, particularly for students with severe disabilities. Not all schools have the infrastructure necessary to accommodate these students, such as ramps or specialised classrooms. It’s best to visit schools and check their facilities first-hand to ensure they can meet your child’s needs.

Useful links

• Special Needs Initiative for Growth
• Ministry of Education: Special Needs Education Policy (PDF)

Homeschooling in Nigeria

Homeschooling might be a practical option if you prefer to keep your children out of the Nigerian school system or are in the country on a short-term contract. While homeschooling is neither explicitly illegal nor fully regulated, it remains a viable choice for parents looking for flexibility in their children’s education. 

If you decide to go this route, you’ll find various online communities and social media groups that offer valuable advice, curriculum ideas, and support. There are also consultation services available to help guide you through the process, making the transition smoother.

Tutors in Nigeria

Even in the best schools, classroom learning may not suit every child. If your child requires extra help, private tutors can be a great solution, especially around exam time. In cities like Lagos and Abuja, the demand for private tutoring has surged, with more families seeking additional academic support to ensure their children meet educational standards.

There is no official certification for tutors in Nigeria, but many parents prefer tutors with a strong educational background, relevant teaching experience, and specialised skills, such as test preparation or subject-specific knowledge. The quality of tutoring services tends to vary depending on location. 

In urban areas, you’ll find a wider selection of qualified tutors and tutoring centres. In contrast, rural regions may have fewer options, though online tutoring platforms are helping to bridge this gap, providing access to educational support regardless of where you are.

To find a tutor, you can search through tutoring companies or online platforms such as TeacherOn, where independent tutors offer their services. It’s worth considering tutors with experience in the Nigerian curriculum to ensure your child stays on track with their studies.

Useful links

• TeacherOn
• PrepClass