The Kebbi State Government has announced the immediate closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state in response to escalating insecurity. The decision follows recent attacks on educational institutions, including the abduction of students from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.
In a joint statement issued by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Alhaji Issa Abubakar-Tunga, and the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Halima Bande, the government emphasized that the measure was taken to safeguard the lives of students, teachers, and school staff. The closure extends to tertiary institutions, with exceptions made only for the College of Nursing Sciences in Birnin Kebbi.
The commissioners noted that the decision was reached after consultations with security agencies and stakeholders, stressing that the safety of children remains the government’s top priority. They urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to cooperate fully with the directive and remain vigilant during this period of heightened security concern.
This move aligns with similar actions taken by other northern states, including Yobe and Niger, where schools have also been shut down amid rising threats of banditry and kidnappings. The Kebbi State Government assured residents that efforts are ongoing to restore peace and stability, while security operations continue in affected areas.
Authorities expressed deep sympathy to families affected by the recent attacks and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safe return of abducted students. The government further pledged to strengthen security measures around educational institutions before reopening schools.