Nigerian govt shuts 41 schools over insecurity

In response to the worsening security around schools across the country, especially the recent abduction of students in Niger and Kebbi states, the Federal Government of Nigeria on Friday announced the closure of 41 federal government colleges, otherwise known as unity schools,

This was contained in a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education and signed on behalf of the Minister, Tunji Alausa, by the Director of Senior Secondary Education, Binta Abdulkadir.

The statement reads in part: “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 (FUCs) with immediate effect”.

Listed schools

According to the statement, the affected schools are: FGGC Minjibir, Kano State; FTC Ganduje, FGGC Zaria, FTC Kafanchan, FTC Dayi, FGC Daura, FGGC Tambuwal, FSC Sokoto, FTC Wurno, FGC Gusau, FGC Anka, FGGC Gwandu, and FGC Birnin Yauri.

Others are FTC Zuru, FGGC Kazaure, FGC Kiyawa, FTC Hadejia, FGGC Bida, FGC New-bussa, FTC Kuta-shiroro, FGA Suleja, FGC Ilorin, FGGC Omuaran, FTC Gwanara, FGGC Bakori, FGC Ugwolawo, FGGC Kabba, FTC Ogugu, FGGC Bwari, FGC Rubochi, FGGC Abaji, and FGGC Potiskum.

Also affected by the immediate closure order are: FGC Buni Yadi, FTC Gashua, FTC Michika, FGC Ganye, FGC Azare, FTC Misau, FGGC Bajoga, FGC Billiri and FTC Zambuk.

Worsening insecurity 

Nigeria is grappling with a severe insecurity crisis, marked by a surge in abductions, particularly in schools and places of worship. Recent incidents include the kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls from a boarding school in Kebbi State and 52 students from a Catholic school in Niger State.

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These attacks, often carried out by armed gangs seeking ransom, have sparked widespread concern and calls for the government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity.

The situation has drawn international attention, with the United States of America expressing concern over what it described as the safety of Christians in Nigeria.

However, in response, President Bola Tinubu has vowed to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted individuals and has postponed foreign trips to focus on the security crisis. The government said it is also working to enhance security measures, including the adoption of technology-driven strategies to combat terrorism and banditry