The Federal Government (FG) has mandated the immediate closure of 41 Federal Unity Schools across Nigeria as cases of student abductions continue to rise alarmingly, raising nationwide concerns about the safety of pupils and staff in public schools.
Urgent Directive from Federal Ministry of Education
The order was issued on Friday via an official circular signed by Binta Abdulkadir, the Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education. The directive comes amid increasing security threats targeting students in various parts of the country, particularly in northern states prone to militant attacks and banditry.
The circular revealed that the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, approved the temporary closure of these schools as a precautionary measure to prevent further incidents of violence and abduction in communities surrounding these institutions.
Reason Behind the Closure
The ministry explained that the recent spike in abductions and targeted attacks on students necessitated swift action to safeguard lives. The directive emphasized the need for all principals and administrative staff in the affected schools to comply immediately, underscoring that the temporary suspension of academic activities was aimed at prioritizing the safety and security of students, teaching staff, and support personnel in vulnerable regions.
The circular also highlighted that security agencies have been alerted to increase vigilance around the closed schools and nearby communities, with measures being coordinated to monitor any potential threats during the shutdown period.
Full List of Schools Affected
The 41 Federal Unity Colleges affected by the closure include: FGGC Minjibir, FGA Suleja, FTC Ganduje, FGGC Zaria, FTC Kafancha, FGGC Bakori, FTC Dayi, FGC Daura, FGGC Tambuwal, FSC Sokoto, FTC Wurno, FGC Gusau, FGC Anka, FGGC Gwandu, FGC Birnin Yauri, FTC Zuru, FGGC Kazaure, FGC Kiyawa, FTC Hadejia, FGGC Bida, FGC New Bussa, FTC Kuta-Shiroro, FGC Ilorin, FGGC Omu-Aran, FTC Gwanara, FGC Ugwolawo, FGGC Kabba, FTC Ogugu, FGGC Bwari, FGC Rubochi, FGGC Abaji, FGGC Potiskum, FGC Buni Yadi, FTC Gashau, FTC Michika, FGC Ganye, FGC Azare, FTC Misau, FGGC Bajoga, FGC Billiri, and FTC Zambuk.
Wave of Kidnappings Triggers Widespread Fear
The decision to close these institutions follows a series of alarming attacks. In Niger State, terrorists abducted several students from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. Just days before, in Maga, Kebbi State, 25 students were kidnapped in a similar attack, triggering panic among parents and local communities alike.
In Kwara State, more than 50 schools were temporarily shut down on Thursday following threats and attacks by bandits in communities near learning centers. Parents, teachers, and students have expressed fear and frustration over the rising insecurity, calling on the government to take stronger, proactive measures to ensure safety and prevent further abductions.
The Ministry of Education has assured the public that the closures are temporary and that plans are underway to enhance security measures, including deploying law enforcement personnel, collaborating with community leaders, and implementing early warning systems to detect potential threats. The government has also urged parents to monitor their children closely and report any suspicious activities to authorities during this period of heightened risk.[/p>