The Bauchi State Government has directed the immediate shutdown of all public and private schools across the state following escalating security concerns.
The order affects every tier of education, including state-owned primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, as well as Federal Government–owned schools operating within the state.
The announcement was conveyed through a press statement issued by Jalaludeen Usman, Information Officer of the Ministry of Education.
“Although this was a difficult decision, the Government of Bauchi State, after extensive consultations, has deemed it necessary in view of the overwhelming security threats impacting the safety of students, teachers, and entire school communities,” the statement read.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting learners and appealed to the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative by promptly reporting any suspicious activities.
“We urge parents, guardians, school proprietors, and all stakeholders not to panic but to remain supportive. The government is working closely with security agencies to address these concerns quickly and comprehensively, with the aim of restoring normal academic activities as soon as it is safe,” the statement added.
Authorities assured residents that timely updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
Bauchi now joins a growing number of states forced to shut down schools due to rising insecurity and a wave of mass abductions in parts of the country.
Last Saturday, Katsina State became the second state to announce the closure of all primary and secondary schools, following a statement from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary School Education’s spokesperson, Sani Danjuma. Earlier on Friday, Plateau State had ordered the closure of all its primary and junior secondary schools for similar security reasons.
“All Government Junior Model Secondary Schools will close effective Saturday, November 22, while all Primary and Day Schools will close effective Monday, November 24,” Plateau State declared.
The Federal Government also announced on Friday the closure of 47 Unity Schools nationwide.
These closures come amid an alarming surge in attacks by armed groups targeting schools, religious institutions, and security personnel—particularly across northern Nigeria, which comprises 19 of the country’s 36 states.
Just Monday, armed men invaded Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu, Kebbi State, abducting at least 24 schoolgirls and killing the school’s vice principal.
On Friday, gunmen struck St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, abducting hundreds of students and staff. While over 315 people were kidnapped, at least 50 students have so far escaped.
Similarly, on Tuesday, attackers stormed a church in Eruku, Kwara State, killing at least two worshippers and abducting several others.
In Borno State, terrorists recently ambushed a military team, killing a Brigadier-General and four other security personnel.
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