By Ali Elias
The Lagos State Government has released the harmonised academic calendar for the 2025/2026 school year, applicable to all public and private schools operating below the tertiary level within the state.
The announcement was made through the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, following extensive consultation with stakeholders across the education sector. These included representatives of school associations, private school proprietors, principals, education experts, and regulatory agencies.
The Coordinating Director of OEQA, Mr. Remi Abdul, disclosed that the academic calendar had been reviewed and ratified during a stakeholders’ meeting and was subsequently approved by the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun.
Highlights of the 2025/2026 Academic Calendar:
- First Term: Monday, 15th September 2025 – Friday, 19th December 2025
- Second Term: Monday, 12th January 2026 – Friday, 17th April 2026
- Third Term: Monday, 4th May 2026 – Friday, 24th July 2026
According to Abdul, the calendar is aligned with national education policy requirements, public holidays, and external examination dates. It also takes into account the unique scheduling needs of international schools operating within Lagos.
“The harmonised calendar ensures consistency, equity, and predictability across all primary and secondary schools. It fosters effective teaching and learning while also providing room for external assessments and necessary breaks,” Abdul stated.
He urged all schools to strictly comply with the approved dates and guidelines, noting that the OEQA will undertake regular monitoring to ensure proper implementation.
Abdul further reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to quality education, describing the harmonised calendar as part of efforts to create a stable and learner-centred academic environment across the state.