The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of 41 Unity Schools across Nigeria following a surge in student abductions, the Ministry of Education confirmed on Friday.
In a circular issued by the Director of Senior Secondary Education, Binta Abdulkadir, schools affected by the directive were instructed to comply strictly with the closure order.
“Sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches, the Honourable Minister of Education has approved the immediate closure of the listed Federal Unity Colleges,” the circular stated.
The affected institutions 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, and FGC Anka, among others.
The decision follows a string of violent incidents targeting schools. Just days ago, over 50 schools in Kwara State were temporarily closed after attacks by bandits.
Recent abductions in Niger and Kebbi States, including the kidnapping of 25 students in Maga, Kebbi, have intensified concerns over the security of educational institutions.
President Bola Tinubu also reportedly cancelled planned trips to South Africa and Angola to personally coordinate responses to the worsening insecurity.
Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, while addressing the issue, emphasized the safety of students as the top priority.
“We cannot compromise the welfare of our children. Every measure possible will be taken to protect them,” he said.
The government has urged school principals and staff to adhere strictly to the closure directives and reassured parents that steps are being taken to secure affected institutions.
