Nigeria is taking steps to improve its education system by revising the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act to place greater emphasis on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). Policymakers recognize that the early years, from birth to age eight, are critical for a child’s development, school readiness, and lifelong learning outcomes.

Significance of the UBE Act Revision

The UBE Act, enacted in 2004, established free and compulsory basic education in Nigeria and created the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to oversee its implementation nationwide. Basic education under the current law includes pre primary, primary, and junior secondary education.

However, experts have criticized the Act for its limited and non specific treatment of early childhood education. While it mentions pre primary education and early childhood programs, it lacks clear requirements for government funding, teacher training, curriculum standards, and universal access particularly for children aged 0-5.

Proposed Changes

The National Assembly is considering amendments to the UBE Act that would:

1. Make ECCE free and compulsory, integrating it fully into Nigeria’s basic education system.
2. Ensure increased funding and accountability for early learning programs across states and local governments.
3. Recognize ECCE as a key foundation for reducing dropout rates and improving learning outcomes in later school years.

The reforms aim to align Nigeria with global evidence showing that quality early childhood education boosts literacy, numeracy, social skills, and long term academic success. They also target persistent gaps in access, teacher availability, and public ECCE infrastructure, especially in rural areas.

Challenges in Basic Education

The reform comes at a time when Nigeria faces significant education challenges. Millions of children remain out of school, and many struggle with basic literacy and numeracy skills. Reports indicate that over 18 million children are not enrolled in basic education, with early childhood education access being particularly limited. Strengthening ECCE through the UBE Act could help prepare children for primary school and improve overall educational outcomes.

Support from Stakeholders

Education experts, lawmakers, and development partners, including UNICEF and civil society organizations, support the inclusion of stronger ECCE provisions. They argue that without solid legal backing, early childhood education in Nigeria will continue to face resource shortages, untrained teachers, and unequal access.

Reforming the UBE Act to prioritize early childhood education represents a major shift in Nigeria’s education policy. If implemented, it could expand learning opportunities for millions of children, providing a solid foundation for their cognitive, social, and emotional development and enhancing success across the education system.