Many educators, parents, and students believe that the Nigerian curriculum is outdated. Critics argue that it still emphasizes rote memorization over critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills. The curriculum is often slow to incorporate current global trends such as digital literacy, artificial intelligence, robotics, climate change education, and entrepreneurial thinking. In a rapidly changing world, the content taught in Nigerian schools sometimes fails to equip students with relevant 21st-century skills needed for real-world success.

Furthermore, the structure of the curriculum tends to be rigid, making it difficult to adapt to modern pedagogical innovations or tailor learning to students' diverse talents. Subjects like coding, financial literacy, and modern health education are either missing or poorly integrated, leaving students at a disadvantage when compared with their international peers. Critics also argue that the curriculum does not sufficiently reflect local Nigerian realities or promote critical civic engagement.

On the other hand, some educators and policy-makers argue that the Nigerian curriculum is not entirely outdated, but rather under-implemented. The curriculum includes diverse subject areas, including ICT, entrepreneurship, civic education, and health science. However, many schools lack the resources, trained teachers, and infrastructure to deliver the content effectively. In this view, the problem lies more with the execution than the curriculum itself.

Additionally, curriculum reviews do occur periodically through the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), which seeks to align school content with global standards. Critics may overlook the fact that subjects like Basic Science, Basic Technology, and Computer Studies have been introduced to promote digital and scientific literacy. The issue may be a lag in adoption and investment rather than the curriculum being inherently outdated.

While the Nigerian curriculum has undergone revisions, there is widespread concern that it is not evolving fast enough to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The real challenge may lie in both content and implementation. Updating curriculum topics and ensuring that schools are well-equipped to deliver them should go hand in hand. A dynamic, flexible, and inclusive curriculum is essential if Nigeria is to prepare its students for the global economy and future challenges.