The Bauchi State Government has taken the drastic step of ordering the immediate shutdown of all educational institutions across the state, citing grave security concerns affecting students and staff.
Complete Educational Shutdown Ordered
All public and private schools, including federal institutions, have been directed to close immediately following escalating security threats in northern Nigeria. The closure affects primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions regardless of ownership.
The directive was officially communicated through a press statement issued by Jalaludeen Usman, Information Officer for the Ministry of Education. The statement emphasized that the decision followed extensive consultations and was prompted by overwhelming security concerns threatening the safety of students, teachers, and school communities.
Northern States Grapple with Security Crisis
Bauchi becomes the latest northern state to implement such measures, joining Katsina and Plateau states that recently ordered similar school closures. Last Saturday, Katsina state shut all primary and secondary schools, while Plateau state suspended operations in its primary and junior secondary schools effective November 22 and November 24 respectively.
The federal government has also responded to the crisis by closing 47 federal secondary schools, commonly known as Unity Schools, across the affected regions.
Recent Attacks Prompt Urgent Action
The decision follows several disturbing incidents that have heightened security fears. Recent attacks include the abduction of at least 24 schoolgirls and the killing of a vice principal in Kebbi state, plus the kidnapping of over 315 students and staff in Niger State.
Authorities have assured the public that security agencies are working diligently to address these concerns and create conditions for the safe resumption of academic activities. The government has called on parents, guardians, and school proprietors to remain calm but vigilant during this period.
Jalaludeen Usman stated: "We call on parents, guardians, school proprietors, and all concerned stakeholders not to panic but to remain calm and supportive. The government remains committed to working with security agencies to ensure the safety of all students and staff."
Officials have promised to provide regular updates as the security situation develops, emphasizing that learner safety remains their utmost priority amid the growing insecurity affecting schools, religious institutions, and security personnel across northern Nigeria.
