The Bauchi State government has directed the immediate shutdown of all public and private schools across the state, covering state-owned primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, as well as Federal Government–owned schools.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Education’s Information Officer, Jalaludeen Usman, the decision follows extensive consultations and rising security concerns.
“This decision, though difficult, was taken by the Government of Bauchi State after extensive consultations and in response to overwhelming security concerns affecting the safety of students, teachers, and school communities across the state,” the statement read.
The government emphasized its commitment to protecting learners and urged residents to stay calm, alert, and cooperative in reporting suspicious activities.
“We call on parents, guardians, school proprietors, and all concerned stakeholders not to panic but to remain calm and supportive. The government is working closely with security agencies to address these concerns swiftly and comprehensively, ensuring that normal academic activities resume as soon as it is safe to do so,” the statement added.
It also assured that further updates would be provided as developments unfold.
Bauchi now joins other states that have shut down schools due to increasing insecurity and recent mass abductions of students.
Last Saturday, Katsina State ordered the closure of all primary and secondary schools, becoming the second state to take such action.
A statement issued by the Katsina State Ministry of Basic and Secondary School Education’s spokesperson, Sani Danjuma, confirmed the directive.
Katsina’s action followed that of Plateau State, which earlier on Friday directed the closure of all its primary and junior secondary schools over security concerns.
“All Government Junior Model Secondary Schools will close effective Saturday, November 22, while all Primary and Day Schools will close effective Monday, November 24,” the Plateau government said.
On the same day, the Federal Government declared the closure of 47 federal secondary schools (Unity Schools).
These closures come amid rising attacks by armed groups targeting schools, religious institutions, and security personnel, particularly in northern Nigeria.
Recent incidents include the abduction of at least 24 schoolgirls and the killing of a vice principal at Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, as well as the kidnapping of dozens of pupils and staff at St. Mary’s School in Agwara, Niger State.
In a separate attack, gunmen targeted a church in Eruku, Kwara State, leaving at least two worshippers dead and several abducted.
Additionally, terrorists in Borno State recently ambushed a military team, resulting in the death of a brigadier general and four security operatives.