The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) has formally opposed the newly introduced curriculum for basic, senior secondary, and technical education in Nigeria. This reform has sparked concern among Christian groups and other stakeholders, particularly regarding the combination of Christian Religious Studies and Islamic Religious Studies into a single subject titled “Religion and National Values.”
In 2017, the then Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, directed the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) to separate Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) and Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) in the basic education curriculum. This decision responded to complaints from parents and stakeholders about the merger of the two subjects. Consequently, the NSCEA and the broader Christian community continue to uphold this directive, advocating for distinct religious education for each faith.
Concerns Over the New Curriculum
Many Christian leaders believe that merging religious subjects undermines the unique principles and teachings of each faith. Moreover, this approach could dilute the distinctive values of Christianity and Islam. The council also asserts that the government did not engage sufficiently with key stakeholders, including Christian leaders and organizations, prior to implementing the new curriculum.
Impact on Moral and Ethical Values
Religious education plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ character and moral compass. Therefore, emphasizing national values over specific religious teachings may compromise the moral foundation of Nigerian society. Additionally, experts warn that reducing the focus on faith-based instruction could weaken students’ ethical grounding.
Changes Introduced in the Curriculum
The revised curriculum outlines several modifications across different educational levels:
Basic Education: Pupils will study 9–10 subjects, including “Religion and National Values.”
Junior Secondary Education: Pupils will study 10–12 subjects, including “Religion and National Values.”
Senior Secondary Education: Students will study 12–14 subjects, including “Religion and National Values.”
Technical Education: Students will study 9–11 subjects.
NSCEA’s Position on Religious Education
The NSCEA urges the government to reconsider the curriculum reform and engage in meaningful dialogue with Christian leaders and other stakeholders. In particular, the council emphasizes that the curriculum should respect Nigeria’s religious diversity while maintaining the integrity of religious education.
Preserving Religious Integrity
Christian Religious Studies and Islamic Religious Studies must remain separate to safeguard their unique principles and teachings. This separation is crucial for nurturing students’ spiritual and moral development. Furthermore, keeping the subjects distinct ensures that religious education retains its full educational value.
The NSCEA calls on all Christians and concerned stakeholders to oppose the merger and advocate for a more inclusive approach to education. By working together, communities can ensure that children receive an education that honors both their faith and core values.
Government’s Objective vs. Religious Education
While the government’s aim to reduce content overload and the number of subjects is commendable, the NSCEA warns that this should not come at the expense of religious education. Therefore, a balance between efficiency and faith-based instruction is crucial.
Parents, teachers, and students have expressed apprehensions regarding the new curriculum. The NSCEA aligns with these concerns, advocating for stakeholder participation in the curriculum development process. Additionally, the council believes that meaningful consultation can prevent potential conflicts over educational content.
Christian Leaders’ Position
Christian leaders across Nigeria consistently stress the significance of religious education in shaping students’ ethical values. Consequently, the NSCEA supports this stance and urges the government to reconsider implementing “Religion and National Values” as a merged subject.
National Values and Inclusivity
Although national values are essential in education, they should complement, not replace, faith-specific teachings. Moreover, a balanced curriculum must respect Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural landscape.
The NSCEA concludes that the 2025 curriculum reform requires further review and stakeholder consultation. Therefore, the government should prioritize religious education integrity while ensuring the curriculum reflects Nigeria’s diversity.
The NSCEA remains steadfast in advocating for the rights and interests of Christians in Nigeria. The council will continue monitoring the curriculum implementation and engaging with government authorities to ensure that Christian concerns are addressed.
Signed:
Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Secretary, Elders’ Council
Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA)
