Zamfara Defies Trend, Keeps Schools Operational
The Zamfara State Government has made a bold declaration that it will not join other northern states in closing schools despite the alarming increase in student abductions across the region. Instead of shutting down educational institutions, state officials confirm they have implemented enhanced security measures to protect learning centers and ensure students can continue their education without fear of attacks.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, delivered this assurance while speaking with journalists at an event organized by the Federated Association of Zamfara State Students in Gusau. His statement comes as a direct response to two major kidnapping incidents that have shaken the nation.
Recent Abductions Spark National Concern
The commissioner's reassurance follows the abduction of 25 students from Government Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, located in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. This incident occurred alongside another devastating attack on Saint Mary's Catholic School in Niger State, where approximately 315 students and staff were taken captive by armed bandits.
While numerous northern states have responded to the surge in attacks by ordering immediate school closures, Zamfara remains steadfast in its alternative approach. The state government emphasizes that rather than closing schools, they are strengthening security perimeters around educational institutions to prevent bandit incursions.
Security Strategy: Actions Over Words
Madawaki explained the state's position clearly, stating, "We have already done what we are supposed to do, and when you talk about security, you do not disclose your actions to the media. But we have taken steps to safeguard the interests of our students. The security of the schools and children is well taken care of."
The commissioner further revealed that Zamfara maintains constant communication with all security agencies, who are providing necessary support to ensure schools operate without disruption. "We believe nothing will happen, and our education will continue to flourish until the end of the academic term," Madawaki added confidently.
Day Schools vs Boarding Schools: Different Risk Factors
Madawaki provided crucial context explaining why Zamfara's situation differs from other states implementing mass closures. He noted that states ordering widespread shutdowns primarily operate boarding schools, which face higher vulnerability because students reside on school premises overnight.
"As of now, most of the states that have closed their schools operate boarding systems where students stay in hostels. Bandits often strike at night when people are asleep. Here, we are yet to resume our boarding system. Our schools run during the day," the commissioner clarified.
This distinction highlights Zamfara's strategic adjustment to persistent insecurity, having already transitioned mainly to day school operations rather than riskier boarding arrangements.
Targeted Closures in High-Risk Areas
The commissioner emphasized that Zamfara isn't taking a blanket approach to school operations. "Where we feel there is insecurity, the schools have already been closed. Where there is relative peace, we have allowed students to continue since the term is almost ending. If there is a need to extend holidays, we shall do so," he explained.
Madawaki also addressed higher education institutions, noting that state universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education are already on holiday. These institutions were scheduled to resume in December, but because they accommodate boarding students, the government plans to extend their holidays until January while security assessments continue.
National Crisis Demands Federal Response
The recent abductions in Kebbi and Niger states have triggered nationwide concern and prompted school closures across multiple states. In Niger State, armed attackers abducted 303 pupils and 12 teachers from St Mary's Catholic School on Friday, though approximately 50 pupils managed to escape captivity. Security forces, local vigilantes, and hunters continue searching for the remaining captives.
In the Kebbi incident, gunmen kidnapped 25 schoolgirls after killing a senior staff member, further highlighting the severity of the security challenge facing educational institutions in northern Nigeria.
The crisis has prompted immediate action from multiple quarters:
- Katsina, Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi and Kebbi States have ordered full or partial school shutdowns
- The Federal Government directed the closure of 47 Unity Colleges nationwide
- UNICEF has condemned the attacks
- Church authorities have confirmed the number of abducted children
President Bola Tinubu described the incidents as leaving him "depressed" and has taken decisive action by ordering defence chiefs to relocate to affected states and personally oversee rescue operations. The President canceled scheduled travel to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing he would not "relent" and stating that securing the abducted students represents "a national priority."
