In a sudden move aimed at safeguarding students and staff, the Nigerian federal government announced on Friday that all Federal Unity Colleges (FUCs) across the country would be closed immediately.
The directive, issued by the Ministry of Education through a circular signed by the Director of Senior Secondary Education, Hajiya Binta Abdulkadir, instructs school administrators to suspend all academic activities and send learners home without delay.The decision follows a surge in violent incidents that have targeted educational institutions in several states.
In recent weeks, armed groups have carried out attacks on schools in Kebbi, Niger and other regions, resulting in abductions, fatalities and widespread fear among parents and educators. The ministry cited these security challenges as the primary reason for the temporary closure, emphasizing that the measure is precautionary and intended to protect lives while authorities work to restore safety.
According to the circular, the shutdown applies to the 41 Federal Unity Colleges located throughout the nation’s six geopolitical zones. Among the institutions affected are Federal Government Girls College in Minjibir, Federal Technical College in Ganduje, Federal Government Girls College in Zaria, Federal Technical College in Kafanchan, Federal Government College in Daura, Federal Government Girls College in Tambuwal, Federal Science College in Sokoto, Federal Technical College in Wurno, Federal Government College in Gusau, Federal Government College in Anka, Federal Government Girls College in Gwandu, Federal Government College in Birnin Yauri, Federal Government Girls College in Bida, Federal Technical College in Kuta‑Shiroro, Federal Government College in Ilorin, and Federal Government Girls College in Omu‑Aran, among others.
The notice assures that the closure will remain in effect until the security environment improves and a safe learning environment can be guaranteed.President Bola Tinubu, who recently cancelled overseas trips to focus on the nation’s security situation, has directed the Ministry of Defence to increase military and police presence in the affected areas.
The government has also urged parents, community leaders and civil‑society organizations to cooperate with law‑enforcement agencies by providing any information that could help prevent further attacks.
Education officials stressed that the temporary suspension is not a reflection of the overall safety of the country’s schools but rather a response to an escalating threat that requires immediate action. They pledged to keep the public informed of any developments and to resume normal operations as soon as conditions permit.
The nationwide closure of Federal Unity Colleges marks the latest in a series of measures taken by the federal government to address the growing insecurity in the education sector. As authorities work to apprehend those responsible for the recent assaults, families and educators are left hoping for a swift return to normalcy and a renewed commitment to protecting Nigeria’s youth.
