The Lagos State Government on Tuesday commenced the distribution of textbooks to Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students in public schools, as part of efforts to expand access to learning materials and strengthen quality education across the state.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Education Resource Centre, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Alli-Balogun, said the initiative reflects the government’s resolve to enhance teaching and learning, noting that education is incomplete without access to textbooks.
Aligning the gesture with the state’s free education policy, the commissioner described the rollout as the first batch, adding that more textbooks in Mathematics, English and other core subjects will be procured next year.
He applauded teachers for their dedication and the impressive performance of students in recent examinations, while urging students to embrace discipline, curiosity and hard work. Alli-Balogun advised them to study independently, seek clarification frequently and remain respectful to their teachers.
He also charged teachers and school principals to safeguard the books and ensure proper usage.
The commissioner further disclosed that the state will soon distribute digital tablets to selected SS3 students across all education districts on a proportional basis.
Addressing concerns over the timing of the distribution—coming just a week before schools vacate for the Christmas break—he explained that the delay was due to the time required to customise the textbooks with Lagos State markings.
Despite this, Alli-Balogun expressed confidence that the intervention, along with the upcoming digital tools, will boost students’ performance in the 2026 WASSCE.