Nigeria’s federal government has ordered the immediate closure of 41 Federal Unity Colleges across the country following fresh security threats and a string of deadly attacks targeting schools in several northern states.
The directive was issued after violent incidents in Kebbi and Niger States, where armed men invaded schools, abducted students and staff, and killed at least one official. The Ministry of Education communicated the shutdown through a formal circular addressed to all principals of affected institutions.
In the circular dated November 21, 2025, and signed by Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, approved the closure of all 41 listed colleges. “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,” the circular read.
The statement directed principals to ensure full compliance, listing schools such as FGGC Minjibir, FGGC Zaria, FGC Daura, FSC Sokoto, FGC Gusau, FGC Birnin Yauri, FGGC Potiskum, FGC Buni Yadi, FGGC Abaji, FGC Ganye, FGC Azare, FGGC Bajoga, FGC Billiri, and FTC Zambuk, among others.
This measure comes as Nigeria faces a renewed wave of attacks on educational institutions. The closures are intended as a protective step while security agencies respond to unfolding threats.
One of the latest tragedies occurred in Kebbi State, where gunmen stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, abducting 25 students and fatally shooting the vice-principal, Malam Hassan Makaku, during an attempted resistance. The incident heightened nationwide fears and renewed calls for urgent action to safeguard schools.
Security records show that between 2014 and 2022, more than 1,680 schoolchildren were abducted across the country, underscoring the gravity of the ongoing crisis.
The Ministry of Education assured that the closures are temporary but necessary to prevent further loss of lives. Principals of the 41 colleges have been instructed to act immediately while authorities monitor the situation closely.
Ademide Adebayo
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