American School Introduces U.S.-Based Model to Strengthen Nigerian Curriculum

Abraham Lincoln American Academy has implemented a curriculum rooted in the U.S. education system to raise the standard of learning in Nigeria and to nurture critical thinkers and students who can compete globally.

The Head of School in Abuja, Jessica McAllister, speaking during the academy’s graduation event held over the weekend in Lagos, highlighted the significance of parents’ roles and curriculum development in creating a lasting educational difference.

She emphasized that each choice a parent makes affects their child’s growth and explained that the academy’s academic setting gives students a better chance at future success.

“Every action you take is training your child in one way or another; if you enrol them in a school like Abraham Lincoln American Academy, they will get the right foundation. If you don’t, you risk a different outcome. There’s no middle ground; it’s either forward or backwards.”

She explained that the academy merges Nigerian curriculum benchmarks with American-style teaching, especially in subjects such as history and geography, in alignment with national education policies. Core areas like English language arts are taught through dual approaches—one focusing on grammar and essential skills, and the other incorporating non-fiction texts to teach science, geography, and critical thinking.

McAllister noted that the academy uses the flipped classroom method, which emphasizes student engagement and personal interests over conventional rote learning.

She pointed out that the academy’s mission goes beyond instruction, aiming to develop leaders and innovators by encouraging creativity, discipline, and discovery—presenting a vision for a contemporary and internationally relevant Nigerian education system.

The President of the academy, Emmanuella Imansuangbon, also spoke on the distinct benefits of the American educational model.

“The American curriculum is very engaging and hands-on. I still remember what I learned in second grade because of how practical it was. That’s why I say it is better than most traditional curricula,” she stated.

She added that the school’s approach includes maintaining small class sizes and offering a structured orientation for teachers, helping them meet global education standards through specialized training.

Chief Oghenegaren Ejovi, the Guest Speaker, encouraged the students to adopt the values shown by Abraham Lincoln’s firm dedication to excellence, portraying the former U.S. president as a symbol of persistence and strength in overcoming obstacles.