Several public and private schools in security-affected areas of Niger State will remain closed, even as the state government has approved the reopening of schools located in areas considered safe from January 12, 2026.
The Niger State Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, announced the decision in a press statement, stating that only schools in communities assessed as safe and secure are permitted to resume academic activities. Schools in areas still classified as unsafe or insecure will remain shut until they are cleared by relevant security agencies.
According to the ministry, the decision followed detailed security assessments and consultations with security authorities. The move is aimed at protecting students, teachers, and the wider school community amid ongoing security challenges in parts of the state.
As part of the reopening process, school authorities in approved areas have been directed to immediately register all returning students upon resumption. The data collected must be submitted to the ministry within one week to support monitoring, planning, and proper documentation.
In addition, Local Government Area chairmen have been instructed to support the reopening exercise by ensuring adequate security presence in and around school premises. They are to work closely with security operatives to safeguard both students and staff as academic activities resume.
To ensure transparency and public awareness, the ministry also announced that an official list of public and private schools approved to reopen on January 12 will be released. This, the government said, will help parents and guardians make informed decisions regarding the safety of their children.
Why are schools only reopening in safe areas? All children deserve education regardless of their location. Education is a right!
Why not focus on improving security in all areas to ensure all children have access to education? Safety should be a priority everywhere.
Why prioritize safe locations over all others? Shouldnt all children have the right to education regardless of their areas security status?
This decision seems unfair to students in insecure areas. Education is a right for all, regardless of location.
Why not focus on improving security in all areas instead of just moving schools? Safety should be a priority everywhere.
Why not focus on improving security in all areas instead of just moving schools? Safety should be a priority everywhere.
Why not focus on improving security in all areas instead of just relocating schools? Everyone deserves a safe learning environment.
Why not prioritize securing all schools instead of just reopening in safe locations? Childrens safety should come first.
Why keep some schools closed? Shouldnt all children have the right to education, regardless of their locations security? #EqualOpportunities