The Federal Government of Nigeria is scheduled to meet with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) on Wednesday to discuss a proposal by the Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa, aimed at extending basic education to 12 years. The proposal, which seeks to merge junior and senior secondary education into a single continuous programme, has sparked considerable debate among education stakeholders. While some support the idea, others have urged for more thorough discussions before any concrete steps are taken.

The plan, which is still in the proposal phase, has not yet been made into law. In an exclusive interview, the National President of ANCOPPS, Mr. Musa Ibrahim, explained that while the Minister of Education presented the idea, it had yet to receive official approval or enactment. Ibrahim stated, “The minister has made a proposal, but it’s not a law yet. He has simply suggested it, and we haven’t had the chance to discuss it thoroughly. We’re not backing or rejecting this policy change just yet.” He emphasized that the upcoming meeting would be crucial in determining the next steps in the discussion.

Ibrahim also clarified that the meeting in Abuja would provide a platform for a more detailed exchange of views. “We’re heading to Abuja on Wednesday for a meeting, and once we’ve had our discussions, I’ll be sure to brief you on the outcome,” he said. This meeting is expected to set the stage for deeper analysis of the proposed education reform and its potential impact on the country’s education system.

Meanwhile, Mr. Audu Amber, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of further analysis before taking any definitive stance on the proposal. Amber explained, “Thank God you said it’s a proposal. Since the day before yesterday, I’ve not been talking because all the media houses, both print and broadcast, have been calling me for our comment. I don’t want to comment now because until I get the full picture and intentions of the government, I can’t speak on it.” The NUT leader’s cautious approach highlights the uncertainty surrounding the proposal and the need for clearer information before making a public statement.