NERDC

By Anas Abbas

When Professor Salisu Shehu assumed office as Secretary-General of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) twelve months ago, expectations were naturally high. His background spanning academia, public service, and university administration suggested a leader well-versed in both theory and practice. One year on, those expectations are steadily taking shape in policy actions and institutional reforms.

Born in Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi State, Professor Shehu’s career journey reflects a deep and consistent engagement with education. From advising former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda on education matters to serving as Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, his professional life has been shaped by classrooms, policy chambers, and research institutions. That experience would soon inform his approach at NERDC.

Upon assuming office, one of his first priorities was the internal part. Professor Shehu believed that effective national reform could not emerge from a divided institution. He therefore placed strong emphasis on building harmony and mutual understanding among staff members. In his view, a research and development council can only thrive when its workforce operates as a cohesive unit, driven by shared purpose rather than fragmented interests.

Yet, beyond institutional culture, curriculum reform remains the centerpiece of his leadership. For years, the national Teacher’s Guide had been limited to junior secondary schools, leaving a noticeable gap at the senior secondary level. Under Professor Shehu’s stewardship, the guide underwent a comprehensive review by subject experts and was subsequently expanded to cover senior secondary education a landmark achievement for the Council. With the support of the Minister of Education, the updated Teacher’s Guide has now been implemented nationwide, marking one of NERDC’s most significant interventions in recent times.

Professor Shehu’s vision, however, extends beyond a single reform. He argues that education systems must evolve in step with a rapidly changing world. To this end, he has proposed a quarterly review and update of Nigeria’s national curriculum an ambitious but strategic move aimed at ensuring Nigerian students remain competitive with their counterparts in developed economies.

In the same forward-looking spirit, the Secretary-General has drawn attention to the growing influence of artificial intelligence in global education. As AI increasingly shapes teaching methods, learning content, and assessment models, he maintains that Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind. NERDC, he says, has begun exploring ways to integrate artificial intelligence into curriculum planning and design, signaling a decisive shift toward future-ready education.

Another critical area under his watch is the long-standing debate on mother-tongue instruction in early education. While Professor Shehu supports the policy in principle, he is equally clear about the need for caution. According to him, successful implementation requires proper groundwork, particularly through structured “train-the-trainer” programmes to equip teachers with the necessary skills before nationwide rollout.

Despite the technical demands of policy reform and institutional leadership, Professor Shehu consistently returns to a simple but powerful message especially for young Nigerians. Education, he believes, remains the most reliable pathway to personal growth and national development. His call to the youth is direct and unwavering: embrace learning, build capacity, and prepare for a future shaped by knowledge and innovation.

As he enters his second year at the helm of NERDC, the direction of his leadership is becoming increasingly clear. Reform the tools, update the knowledge base, embrace emerging technologies, and equip the next generation for a world already in motion. For Professor Salisu Shehu, the task of shaping Nigeria’s educational future has only just begun.

Anas Abbas is a final year student of mass communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Prof. Salisu Shehu, has inspected the fully refurbished NERDC Press located at the Council’s South West Zonal Office in Jibowu, Lagos.

The press had been inactive for several years. Prof. Shehu had visited the zonal office on 10 May 2025, and he pledged to bring the non-functional printing facility back to life to improve its productivity.In early September 2025, the Council began the refurbishment work in fulfilment of that promise.

At the start of the repairs, the Press Manager, Mrs. Precious Iweha, praised the Executive Secretary for approving the intervention, explaining that “we have commenced work on the generator set and are currently servicing the Sord Z machine, Polar cutter machine, and one of the Gestener machines”.

She added that “we are grateful for ES approval of the repairs and servicing of the Printing Press. This initiative will ensure that the Council’s investments in plants, machinery, and infrastructure, will yield optimal results”.

After the completion of the project, the Executive Secretary visited the facility on Thursday, 4 December 2025, to assess the work done.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded in his first year in office and gave an assurance that the revitalised press would be put to full use in line with its intended purpose.

The Head of the South West Zonal Office, Mr. Babatope Oloruntoba, and Mrs. Iweha commended the Executive Secretary for the achievement.

They described the successful revamp of the press as a significant milestone for both the NERDC Press and the Council as a whole.

The Executive Secretary of the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Professor Salisu Shehu, has paid a courtesy visit to Northwest University Kano on Thursday, 2 October 2025, where discussions were held on strengthening collaboration between the two institutions.

The visit, which took place at the office of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, saw Professor Shehu—former Vice Chancellor of Istiqamah University Sumaila—reaffirming the Council’s commitment to advancing educational development nationwide.

Speaking during the engagement, Professor Shehu explained that NERDC, established in 1988, has 10 directorates with specific functions, with its primary mandate focused on curriculum development for both foundational and secondary school levels.

He emphasized the regulatory role of the Council in ensuring quality teaching materials, stating: “Every book written in Nigeria must be submitted to the NERDC for review before it can go through further necessary processes. This is crucial in safeguarding quality and uniformity in our education system.”

Professor Shehu appreciated the Vice Chancellor for creating the platform for the visit, adding that the synergy between NERDC and Northwest University Kano would be of immense benefit to both institutions.

In his welcome remarks, Vice Chancellor Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa congratulated Professor Shehu on his appointment as Executive Secretary of NERDC, describing it as a proof to his distinguished service in the education sector.

While pledging the University’s readiness to collaborate, he highlighted recent reforms introduced by the institution. “We have amended our system to allow students to be part of entrepreneurship programs, where they will acquire practical skills during holidays. This is in line with global best practices in higher education,” he said.

Professor Kurawa, whose tenure as Vice Chancellor is nearing completion, assured the NERDC delegation that the incoming administration would sustain the partnership. “Though my time as Vice Chancellor is coming to an end, I will ensure that my successor continues with this collaboration,” he added.

The meeting was attended by the principal officers of the University, who joined the Vice Chancellor in receiving the NERDC team.On the same day, past and present staff of the Vice Chancellor’s office presented an award of excellence and gifts to Professor Kurawa in recognition of his leadership.

The event, held in his office, was filled with emotion as staff members expressed appreciation for his dedication and prayed for greater success in his future endeavors.

Responding to the gesture, Professor Kurawa said: “I am deeply touched by this show of love. Working with such a committed team has been one of the highlights of my tenure. I remain grateful for your support and prayers.”

In another development, on 30th September 2025, the Bursary Department of the University, under the leadership of the Bursar, Malam Salmanu Muhammad Kibiya, organized a send-forth ceremony in honor of Hajiya Amina Shehu Maimota, who retired after decades of meritorious service.

The event featured emotional speeches and presentation of gifts from colleagues and friends both within and outside the department.

The Bursar described her as a committed staff whose contributions greatly enriched the University’s financial administration.Speakers praised her professionalism, dedication, and commitment in service, while wishing her a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has clarified details of the newly revised Basic Education Curriculum (BEC) and Senior Secondary Education Curriculum (SSEC), dismissing claims circulating on social media as “false, distorted, and misleading.”

In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, and made available to The Daily Reality, the Council explained that the reforms were approved by the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and provide a clear framework for subject offerings and strategies for effective implementation.

Prof. Shehu noted that the revision was part of the National Education Sector Renewal Initiatives (NESRI) and in line with global best practices.

He stressed that the reforms were designed to meet Nigeria’s peculiar educational needs while reflecting evidence-based approaches.

“Curriculum is fundamental to the delivery of learning, acquisition of knowledge and competencies, and the attainment of national development,” he said.

He added that the new curricula were the outcome of extensive consultations with critical stakeholders and underwent rigorous technical processes.

According to him, the revised content incorporates 21st-century skills such as digital literacy, robotics, and artificial intelligence, alongside citizenship and sports education.

He explained that these additions were aimed at preparing students for future challenges while ensuring the production of a competent and productive workforce.

On concerns raised about religion and civic education, NERDC clarified that there was no derogatory or divisive content in the new curricula.

Prof. Shehu explained that learners at the senior secondary level would continue to study either Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Studies (IS) in line with their faith.

He stated, “There is no composite subject called Religion and National Values (RNV). That curriculum was disarticulated over a decade ago.”

He further pointed out that subject offerings at all levels had been streamlined to avoid curriculum overload and to ensure learner-centred teaching.

For instance, pupils in Primary 1–3 will take between nine and ten subjects, while senior secondary students will be required to study five compulsory core subjects along with electives in science, humanities, or business.

The Council also introduced trade subjects such as solar photovoltaic installation, livestock farming, fashion design, and computer hardware repairs to improve employability and strengthen the link between education and industry.

In addition, Prof. Shehu revealed that provisions were made for inclusivity, particularly for learners with special needs.

He said subjects such as Braille reading and writing, independent living skills, and orientation and mobility had been developed for visually impaired learners to complement adapted mainstream subjects.

The Executive Secretary confirmed that implementation of the new curricula had already commenced at the beginning of each three-year learning cycle, including Primary 1, Primary 4, JSS 1 and SSS 1.

He added that the full curriculum could be accessed on the Council’s website, http://www.nerdc.gov.ng, while further nationwide sensitisation, teacher training, and engagements with publishers were underway.

Prof. Shehu concluded by appealing to Nigerians to disregard unverified lists of subjects or purported schemes of work being circulated online.

“We profoundly appreciate stakeholders for their responsiveness and positive disposition toward correct information,” he said.

He also urged Nigerians to “ignore any sensational or unauthentic claims regarding the revised curricula” and instead rely on official sources for accurate details.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Prof. Salisu Shehu, has raised concerns over the deteriorating state of the Council’s library, describing it as “decaying and shameful.”

Prof. Shehu stated this during the opening ceremony of the Writing Workshop for Research and Development Database (RDD) & Library Management Information System (LMIS) Documentation and User Manual Development.

The event was held at Freshland Hotels, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, from March 17 to 20, 2025.

Voicing his disappointment over the library’s condition, Prof. Shehu questioned why Research Officers, Academic Staff, and Administrative Officers had not prioritized its improvement.

He further urged all employees, regardless of their departments, to take action in addressing the issue.

He described the library as the think tank of Nigerian education but lamented its current state.

According to him, this neglect is a collective failure that requires immediate attention. He stressed that he expected real change after the workshop.

Since assuming office, Prof. Shehu said he had visited the library multiple times and observed minor improvements. However, he maintained that these efforts were not enough.

He called for comprehensive reforms to transform the library into a modern center for knowledge and research.

Speaking on the purpose of the workshop, he explained that its primary aim was to develop system documentation and a user manual for the R&D Database and LMIS.

He noted that once these systems are fully implemented, they will enhance access to educational research by serving as a repository for completed studies, improve library management to ensure efficiency, and facilitate collaboration between the Council’s library and other research institutions.

He added that it’s of utmost importance to have a well-structured Library Management System and a robust Research and Development Database.

He also urged the Library and Informatics Centre and the Book Development Centre to ensure that all assessed books, whether recommended or not, are properly documented and easily accessible.

Earlier, Dr. Mandela Asebiomo, Director of the Library and Informatics Centre, explained that the workshop was to develop a dual-purpose software application for the Research and Development Database and the Library Management Information System.

He stated that digitizing research records and reports would support policy formulation and academic collaboration. He further noted that integrating the library with online access capabilities would enhance research interconnectivity and information sharing.

The workshop brought together experts from NERDC and other key stakeholders to develop practical solutions for modernizing the Council’s library and research database systems.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Prof. Salisu Shehu, has called for the assistance of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in addressing rising crime and insecurity, particularly the recurring theft incidents threatening the safety of the Council’s office.

During a visit to the Commissioner of Police (CP) of the FCT Command, Prof. Shehu emphasized the vital role the police play in ensuring the safety of NERDC’s operations, especially since the office is located on the outskirts of Abuja, making it more vulnerable to criminal activities. He appealed for enhanced security to protect lives and property at the NERDC headquarters.

“We need special attention and support to feel secure in our location,” Prof. Shehu stated, expressing concern over the vulnerability of the staff and office to security risks.

The Executive Secretary also brought up the recent case of stolen solar inverters, which is under investigation by the police. He urged that the case be thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrators be brought to justice, noting that past thefts within the Council remain unresolved. He expressed NERDC’s readiness to fully support the investigation to ensure accountability.

In response, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Aliyu Abubakar, welcomed the NERDC management team on behalf of CP Olatunji Disu, who was unavailable due to national duties.

He reiterated the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and the police in ensuring the security of lives and properties, and assured that the police would continue to work professionally to resolve the case and bring the culprits to justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has inaugurated its Academic Planning Committee (APC) to enhance research and development within the institution.

The inauguration, which took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, was held at the Council’s headquarters in Sheda, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, reiterated the pros of the committee.

He was quoted as stating that “the committee is a crucial committee of the Council to drive research and development activities.”

He noted that its formation would accelerate research progress and play a key role in advancing the Council’s mandate.

Prof. Shehu reminded members that NERDC serves as the think tank of Nigeria’s education sector and is expected to lead in educational innovations.

He urged also them to reposition both themselves and the Council to effectively fulfill their responsibilities, calling on the committee to develop impactful programmes and research agendas that would benefit both the Council and the country.

Expressing concern over financial constraints, the Executive Secretary stressed the importance of demonstrating expertise to attract more funding from the government and development partners.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Shehu appreciated the committee members for their commitment and urged them to stay motivated.

He advised them to contribute meaningful ideas, stating that he is open to “informed advice and quality suggestions and not gossips.”

Earlier in the meeting, Dr. Chima Egbujuo, Head of the Policy and Programmes Unit and Secretary of the Academic Planning Committee, provided an overview of the committee’s structure and responsibilities.

He explained that the APC comprises the Executive Secretary as the Chairman, alongside all Directors, Assistant Directors, and Chief Research Officers of the Council.

As an advisory body, the committee is expected to guide management on academic activities and initiatives.

By Aisar Fagge

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has called for collaboration with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to enhance and streamline educational research efforts in Nigeria.

Speaking during a visit to the NUC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, NERDC Executive Secretary, Prof. Salisu Shehu, stated that the visit was both a solidarity gesture and an opportunity to explore potential areas of cooperation.

He stated that through collaboration, both organizations could contribute to national development, particularly in research.

Prof. Shehu noted that NERDC’s responsibilities extend beyond coordinating educational research programs in Nigeria.

He noted that the Council also aims to “identify educational problems in Nigeria in which research is needed and then, establish the order of priority therefrom.”

He further stressed the benefits of NERDC’s role as a repository of groundbreaking research in education, adding that such research should influence public policy.

According to him, “by our mandate, NERDC is supposed to serve as a repository of groundbreaking research in education. Such researches are supposed to inform public policies in the education sector through NERDC as the think tank of the Nigeria education. But this mandate has not been fully activated and critical findings from the faculties of education in our ivory towers are not reckoned with in the process of policy formulation in the education sector.

“I believe that, through an effective collaboration, we can harness the efforts of universities in educational research to improve our educational system. NERDC would want to see how we can work with your Commission to get this operational.”

Prof. Shehu also pointed out that NERDC is the only agency under the Federal Ministry of Education with a mandate that spans all levels of the education sector.

He identified curriculum development as another key area for collaboration and advocated for a platform where NERDC could regularly engage with deans of faculties of education and curriculum planners.

He explained that such engagements would better prepare future teachers by exposing them to curriculum frameworks, structures, philosophies, and implementation strategies.

Lamenting the shortage of qualified teachers for some trade areas, he stated that “in-spite of the implementation of the curriculum which began in 2011, we are still faced with the challenge of lack of qualified teachers in some of the trade areas; that we need the universities to fill this gap for the good of the nation. He added that the Council engages Professors as significant resource persons in our curriculum development, and hence, NUC can plan very strategic roles in this regard.”

Furthermore, he disclosed that the NERDC had developed the National Language Policy to preserve and promote Nigerian languages for economic growth and national development.

He also reiterated the need for collaboration between NERDC and NUC to ensure the effective implementation of the policy’s provisions.

In response, NUC Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, acknowledged that it would be beneficial between both organizations, particularly in research for national development.

According to Prof. Ribadu, “NUC, NERDC, TETFUND and NRF need to collaborate in the areas of research, share resources, harness ideas together for efficiency in research delivery in order to avoid duplicity of works and waste of scarce resources.”

He also praised NERDC’s contributions to language development and the preservation of indigenous Nigerian languages, noting that such efforts had helped prevent some languages from going extinct.

Prof. Ribadu assured NERDC of NUC’s readiness to collaborate, stating that he had taken note of the concerns raised and that the commission was committed to supporting the Council in the necessary areas of partnership.

The meeting was attended by senior management officials from both NERDC and NUC.

By Ado Sunusi Sabongida

The recent appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked a wave of excitement across the education sector. This significant development underscores Prof. Shehu’s unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.

A Track Record of Excellence

Prof. Shehu’s impressive credentials speak volumes about his capabilities and commitment to educational reform. His previous role as Special Adviser on Social Reorientation Programs during the Isah Yuguda administration in Bauchi State showcased his ability to navigate complex educational landscapes effectively. Furthermore, his leadership as the National Coordinator of the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) Nigeria office and Secretary of the Nigeria Islamic Council under Sultan Abubakar Sa’ad (III) highlight his influence and dedication to promoting educational initiatives.

Visionary Leadership for a Brighter Future

As the pioneer Director of the Center for Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Shehu introduced a range of innovative developments that enhanced the institution’s academic environment. His leadership style is characterized by a strong commitment to mentoring and fostering educational growth.

In his capacity as Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University Sumaila, he has consistently sought to develop both academic and non-academic staff through seminars and symposia aimed at boosting their intellectual capacities.

Moreover, his recent appointment as a Shura Council member by Kano State Governor Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf further attests to his tireless efforts in community development and his dedication to improving educational outcomes.

High Expectations as Prof. Shehu Takes Charge

With Prof. Shehu at the helm of NERDC, we can anticipate a new era marked by innovation and progress within the education sector. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for educational advancement, positions him as an ideal candidate to spearhead meaningful change. “Prof. Shehu will deliver more than expectations in the commission.”

A Bright Future Ahead for Education in Nigeria

The appointment of Prof. Salisu Shehu as Executive Secretary of NERDC is indeed a welcome development for Nigeria’s education sector. With his proven track record and steadfast commitment to educational excellence, Prof. Shehu is well-equipped to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of education in the country. As Nigeria continues its pursuit of educational advancement, Prof. Shehu’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for education in Nigeria.

Sabongida writes from Kano State.