Authorities in Adamawa State have announced the immediate shutdown of boarding schools as part of emergency security measures to protect students from escalating violence.
Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Umar Garba, confirmed the directive on Friday, explaining that the decision was reached after consultations with security agencies. He noted that recent incidents of abductions targeting schools in northern Nigeria had heightened fears of similar attacks in Adamawa.
Garba stressed that the closure is temporary and will remain in effect until the security situation improves. He urged parents to cooperate with the government, assuring them that alternative arrangements for day schooling would be made to minimize disruption to academic activities.
The move comes amid growing concerns over the safety of schools in Nigeria’s northern region, where bandits have repeatedly targeted students for ransom. Analysts say the decision reflects the government’s prioritization of student safety over academic continuity, even as communities grapple with the impact of insecurity on education.
Residents expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the precautionary measure, while others worried about the long-term effects on children’s learning.
Disclosure:
The Adamawa State Government, through Commissioner Dr. Umar Pella, announced the closure of all public and private boarding schools to prevent a repeat of recent mass abductions in Niger and Kebbi states The Punch. However, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s office later issued a clarification denying reports of a blanket closure, calling earlier claims “misleading” TVC News.
This means there are conflicting reports: one official directive ordering closures, and another statement from the Governor’s office disputing it.
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