The Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state in response to escalating security threats. The directive affects all primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, including federal and private schools.
The announcement was made on Sunday by Jalaludeen Usman, Information and Public Relations Officer of the state Ministry of Education. He said the decision followed consultations with security agencies and other stakeholders.
“This was a difficult decision, but the protection of our children must remain our top priority,” Usman said. “Every student in Bauchi State deserves to learn in a safe and secure environment. The government is working with security agencies to restore safety and ensure normal academic activities resume as soon as possible.”
He urged parents, guardians, and school authorities to remain calm and cooperate, adding that residents should report any suspicious activity. “Timely information from the public is crucial in protecting our communities,” he stressed.
The closure follows a series of attacks across northern Nigeria that have heightened fears for the safety of students. Last week, terrorists abducted over 300 students from a Catholic school in Niger State, while in Kebbi State, gunmen stormed a girls’ secondary school in Maga, killing the Vice Principal and abducting 25 students. In response, both states ordered statewide shutdowns of schools to safeguard students.
Other states have also taken precautionary measures. Plateau State closed all primary and junior secondary schools, and Taraba State suspended boarding facilities in secondary schools, converting them into day schools. On a federal level, the Ministry of Education ordered the temporary closure of 41 Unity Colleges across northern Nigeria, citing rising cases of abduction.
The spate of closures reflects growing concern over the security of educational institutions in the region, as communities grapple with insurgent attacks, kidnappings, and other violent incidents. Authorities have reassured the public that operations are ongoing to address threats and restore stability.
“The safety and well-being of students and teachers remain paramount. Parents and school authorities are urged to cooperate fully with security agencies,” Usman said.
The government also called on all residents to remain vigilant, emphasizing that public cooperation is vital to preventing attacks and ensuring the safe return of students when schools reopen.
Leave a Reply