Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has issued a directive for the immediate reintroduction of history lessons across all primary and secondary schools in the state, following a courtesy visit by the Kebbi State Scholars Association to the Government House on Tuesday.
The governor's decision came after professors and senior academics from various fields presented the association's objectives, which include collaborating with the state government to drive development initiatives.
During the meeting, Dr. Mansur Abubakar Warrah, a senior lecturer in History, Culture, and Religious Movements at Federal University Dutsinma, emphasized the critical importance of reviving history education to ensure the values and legacies of ancestors are passed down to younger generations.
"Teaching history can help reduce insecurity by protecting children from negative foreign cultural influences," Warrah stated. He further explained that the infiltration of harmful foreign cultures has contributed significantly to rising crime rates and has distorted the values held by youth in the state.
The academic advocated for instilling rich cultural heritage elements such as decency, good manners, and etiquette at the basic education level. "This will help shape children into law-abiding and productive citizens," he added.
In response, Governor Idris expressed full support for the initiative and immediately directed the Ministry of Education to implement the resumption of history lessons across all schools in Kebbi State.
This move aligns with growing concerns across Nigeria about preserving indigenous cultural values and historical knowledge among younger generations, especially as globalization continues to influence educational curricula.
The reintroduction of history as a subject is expected to strengthen students' understanding of their cultural identity while providing context for current social and political developments in the region.