Plateau, Katsina Temporarily Shut Basic Schools
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of 41 Unity Colleges across Nigeria, citing recent security threats. Additionally, the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) has directed the closure of all junior and senior basic schools in the state as a precautionary measure.
In a circular issued on Friday by Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Ministry of Education, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, approved the temporary closure of 41 Federal Government Colleges (Unity Colleges) “due to recent security challenges in some parts of the country.”
The circular states: “Sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches, the Minister of Education has approved the immediate closure of the listed federal unity colleges with immediate effect.”
Among the affected schools are Unity Colleges located in Zaria, Daura, Sokoto, Potiskum, Ikare‑Akoko, and Abaji, according to the ministry’s list.
Similarly, the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) announced the immediate closure of all Government Junior Model Secondary Schools, primary schools, and day schools across the state.
According to a statement by Richard Jonah, the Board’s Public Relations Officer, “All Government Junior Model Secondary Schools (GJMSSs) will close effective Saturday, 22 November, while Primary and Day Schools will close effective Monday, 24 November.”
The board described the measure as “a temporary but necessary step to forestall potential threats” and to reassure communities that “the government is prioritising the well-being of our learners.”
PSUBEB also called on local government education authorities, school administrators, and community leaders to comply fully with the directive and “remain vigilant.”
Yusuf Jibia, commissioner for basic and secondary education in Katsina State, also announced the closure of schools in the state on Friday.
Jibia said the decision was taken to safeguard students and teachers as security agencies implement a new statewide school safety strategy.
He said the shutdown is a temporary measure that will remain in effect pending a comprehensive security review of identified high-risk areas.
The Commissioner stated that normal academic activities will resume once security assessments are completed and adequate protection measures are implemented.
The directives follow the attacks on the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi State on Monday and St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Niger State on Friday.
- Nnamdi Kanu Transferred to Sokoto Prison to Serve Life Sentence - November 21, 2025
- Over 200 Pupils, Teachers Abducted in Niger State Catholic School - November 21, 2025
- FG Orders Closure of 41 Unity Colleges Over Security Fears - November 21, 2025