The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly opposed the decision by the Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi state governments to shut down all public and private schools for up to five weeks during Ramadan.
In a statement on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the decision as unfair and harmful to students.
“While we honour the religious diversity of our nation and recognise the significance of faith, these decisions raise serious issues of equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs,” he said.
Okoh stressed that education is a fundamental right and that prolonged closures could worsen Nigeria’s education crisis, particularly in the affected states, where 44 per cent of children are already out of school.
He noted that even in predominantly Islamic nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, schools remain open during Ramadan with adjusted schedules rather than complete closures.
He criticised the lack of broad consultation before the decision was made, stating that CAN leaders in the affected states were not properly engaged despite government claims of stakeholder involvement.
He explained that policies impacting diverse populations (Muslims, Christians, and others) demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors, warning that such unilateral decisions weaken trust in governance.
CAN called on the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi to immediately review the policy and engage all stakeholders in meaningful dialogue.
“A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent,” Okoh said. “Transparency is essential, and we expect these governments to act in good faith by promptly engaging all parties. Our children’s education and our states’ unity are at stake.”
He further warned that if the decision is not reversed, CAN would take legal action to challenge what it sees as an infringement on students’ rights.
“Should these rights face further jeopardy or dialogue fail to deliver justice, CAN is prepared to seek legal recourse. We will pursue restraining orders through the courts to safeguard the constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience,” he said.
CAN urged Nigerians to remain peaceful while the matter was being addressed, reaffirming its commitment to religious harmony.
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