Revolutionising English Education in Nigeria: The Extensive English for Primary Schools’ Success Story 

 
By Kufre Etuk

 
 
In today’s primary educational landscape, a remarkable transformation is underway revolutionising the teaching and learning of the English language across Nigerian schools.

At the vanguard of this academic renewal is the ‘Extensive English for Primary Schools’ series, an exemplary collection of texts published by Extension Publications Limited, based in the academic hub of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Conceived and crafted by the illustrious quartet of linguists—Adenike Akinjobi, James Akinola, Tukur Jega, and Chinenye Nezianya—the series stands as a testament to innovative pedagogy and is pioneering a new era of English language education, solidly standing at the forefront of what stands to be an educational renaissance in Nigeria.

Amidst this academic revival, the strategic foresight and leadership of Sunday Obiyinka, the owner and Chief Executive Officer of Extension Publications Limited, have been instrumental, in ensuring that the ‘Extensive English for Primary Schools’ series achieves and sustains its market-leading position and educational impact. Since its introduction in 2023, this series has not only been adopted by many schools across various states but has also dramatically altered the linguistic landscape, becoming one of the highest-selling educational materials with over 7 million copies sold to date.

This innovative series, produced by Extension Publications Limited, has received wide acclaim for its comprehensive approach to English language learning, seamlessly integrating reading, writing, listening, and speaking into a cohesive learning experience. Its systematic methodology, vivid illustrations, and engaging exercises resonate with both teachers and students, making English not just a subject to be learned, but a skill to be lived and enjoyed.

In Kano, a bustling metropolis rich in cultural diversity, teachers have lauded the series for its inclusivity and adaptability.

Mallam Abdullahi Mustafa, a primary school teacher, said, “Before this series, we struggled with materials that didn’t quite fit our students’ needs. Now, we witness daily eureka moments in classrooms as children relate deeply to the content. It’s no exaggeration to say that ‘Extensive English for Primary Schools’ has set a new gold standard.”
Owerri’s lush landscapes are not the only things growing; students’ comprehension skills are blooming too.

 “The phonetic symbols and examples are game-changers,” said Mrs. Ngozi Ibeh, a seasoned educator. “Once shy Children are now confident in their pronunciation. It’s truly extraordinary to witness.”
The historic city of Benin resonates with similar stories. Mr. Osas Eboh, a primary teacher, attested, “This series has bridged a gap that previously existed in our curriculum. The practical examples and engaging exercises have catalyzed a love for the language among my pupils.”

Down in the commercial nerve centre of Lagos, where innovation is always welcome, the reception of this educational series is nothing short of enthusiastic. Mrs. Adebayo Sandra, a primary school principal, boasted, “Our students’ grasp of English has improved significantly. Their vocabulary has expanded, and their sentence construction has become more sophisticated.”

Teachers in Ibadan, famed for their academic prowess, echo this sentiment. Dr Afolabi Oluwole, a linguist and educator, remarked  “It is not every day that we see a curriculum-transforming resource like this. What we have here is a book series that has not only surpassed previous materials but has set the bar so high that others are now playing catch-up.”

In the northern city of Sokoto, the series is praised for its cultural sensitivity and tailored content. “As an educator, finding materials that respect our culture while delivering top-notch education is key. This series has achieved that balance,” said Alhaji Musa Mamman, a school director.

From the mountainous terrains of Adamawa, testimonials of improvement in student engagement and comprehension abound.
“The book’s colourful illustrations captivate the children, making learning enjoyable,”  Miss Hannah Abubakar, a teacher who specializes in early childhood education noted.

The agrarian state of Benue isn’t left out of this linguistic revolution. Mr. Terver Ochai, an education officer, noted, “We’ve seen a rise in student participation and English proficiency, thanks to this thoughtful series. The authors and publishers have done a tremendous job.”
The impact on children is palpable; young learners now articulate their thoughts more clearly and creatively, a testament to the series’ efficacy.
This transformation is not by chance; it’s the result of meticulous research and an understanding of the educational needs of Nigerian children.

The “Extensive English for Primary Schools” series is more than just a collection of books. It is a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a brighter educational future. It’s a celebration of knowledge, a bridge across learning gaps, and a companion for every child who dreams in English. The authors and Extension Publications Limited are not just purveyors of knowledge; they are architects of dreams, and we stand on the brink of a new dawn in English education in Nigeria.