The Katsina State Government has ordered an immediate shutdown of all public schools across the state in response to new security threats. The order came on Friday, following a surge in violence in northern regions.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Yusuf Sulaiman Jibia confirmed the directive to journalists. He said the state must close schools now to protect students and staff as security agencies implement a new safety strategy.
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education also officially advised parents, teachers, and the public to comply without delay. The government explained that the closure became necessary to avoid any threat to lives.
Furthermore, Jibia emphasized that protection of students and teachers must take priority over exams. He stated the measure remains temporary, pending a thorough security review in high-risk areas. He added that the government will resume academic activities once it finishes assessments and puts in proper protection.
Jibia reassured the public that the state remains committed to students’ safety while balancing educational continuity. He insisted that temporary school closure is better than risking students’ lives during escalating banditry attacks.
Families expressed relief that officials acted early, though many worry about learning disruptions. Security analysts praised the decision, noting that education remains unsafe amid rising kidnappings in Katsina and neighbouring states.
They also urged the state to deploy more security personnel to schools once they reopen. The closure aligns with reports that insecurity has forced schools to shut across Katsina, with 330 students abducted between 2020 and 2025, data shows.
As Katsina officials monitor the threat, parents await updates on when their children will return to classrooms.
