Federal Government Takes Drastic Action Against Student Abductions
The Federal Government has taken the unprecedented step of ordering the immediate closure of 41 Federal Government Colleges, commonly known as Federal Unity Colleges, across Nigeria. This decisive action comes as a direct response to the escalating wave of student abductions that has created widespread fear in the education sector.
Security Threats Prompt Immediate Closure
According to an official statement released late Friday by Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, the closure order was authorized by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. The move aims to prevent potential security breaches and protect students from the growing threat of kidnappings that have recently affected educational institutions in Kebbi and Niger States.
The circular, dated November 21, 2025, and bearing reference number FME/DSSE/GM/S.160/C.11, was addressed to all principals of the affected institutions. Titled 'Closure of forty-one (41) Federal Unity Colleges', the document explicitly stated that the minister approved the immediate closure "sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches."
Comprehensive List of Affected Institutions
The 41 schools ordered to shut down immediately include:
- FGGC Minjibir
- FTC Ganduje
- FGGC Zaria
- FTC Kafanchan
- 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
- FGA Suleja
- FGC Ilorin
- FGC Omuaran
- FTC Gwanara
- FGC Ugwolawo
- FGGC Kabba
- FTC Ogugu
- FGGC Buwari
- FGC Rubochi
- FGGC Abaji
- FGGC Potiskum
- FGC Buni Yadi
- FTC Gashua
- FTC Michika
- FGC Ganye
- FGC Azare
- FTC Misau
- FGGC Bajoga
- FGC Billiri
- FTC Zambuk
Nationwide Impact on Education System
The closure affects a significant portion of Nigeria's 104 Federal Unity Colleges, representing nearly 40% of these institutions nationwide. The Federal Ministry of Education has instructed principals of the affected colleges to ensure strict compliance with the closure order, emphasizing the urgency of the security situation.
This development highlights the continuing challenges facing Nigeria's education security landscape, particularly in regions vulnerable to criminal activities targeting school children. The government's proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to student safety while raising important questions about long-term solutions to secure educational environments across the country.
