Nigerian Publishers Association sues government over textbook ranking policy

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Ibadan against the Federal Government and the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). The legal action challenges the implementation of a new compulsory textbook ranking policy introduced as part of education sector reforms.

The NPA argues that textbooks which have already been assessed, approved, and certified by the NERDC should not be subjected to an additional compulsory ranking exercise as a condition for their continued use, distribution, or sale. The association is seeking a court declaration to determine if the NERDC possesses the statutory authority under the NERDC Act to impose such a regime.

Furthermore, the publishers are contesting the legality of a compulsory ‘Ranking Fee’ associated with the process, arguing it may be unlawful. The suit also questions the validity of the regulations, specifically whether they can take effect without required presidential approval and publication in the Federal Gazette.