A new wave of attacks on schools across northern Nigeria has forced governors in several states to shut institutions and ramp up security measures. Yobe, Kwara, Kano, Kebbi, Kaduna, Plateau, Sokoto, Katsina, Niger, and Taraba are among the states taking urgent action to protect students.
In Yobe, Governor Mai Mala Buni ordered all boarding secondary schools closed after a security review across the state’s 17 local government areas. The closure, confirmed by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, is aimed at preventing further attacks while security agencies strengthen protections. Buni urged citizens to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the military, and security forces.
Kwara State increased surveillance around schools and places of worship following an attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, where six worshippers were killed and 30 abducted. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the army had been deployed to secure vulnerable areas, while schools in Isin, Irepodun, Ifelodun, and Ekiti LGAs were ordered closed.
In Kano, Governor Abba Yusuf deployed 1,600 watchmen to protect public secondary schools after bandits abducted 25 girls in Kebbi State. Kebbi authorities also closed schools in affected areas, enhancing security with joint patrols of army, police, vigilantes, and DSS operatives.
Kaduna State continues to implement its Safe Schools Policy, including risk mapping, community engagement, and emergency response plans. Plateau State temporarily closed basic schools following credible intelligence, while Sokoto reinforced urban boarding schools to avoid repeat attacks.
Katsina has strengthened school security with fencing, guards, trained dogs, and community child protection committees. Niger State closed boarding schools in high-risk areas, while Taraba State converted boarding schools to day operations.
At the federal level, 41 Unity Colleges were ordered closed due to security concerns, with principals directed to comply immediately.
These measures come as northern Nigeria faces a troubling rise in mass abductions, including recent incidents in Kebbi and Niger States. Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu appealed for public cooperation as security operations continue.
Amid Surge in Kidnappings, Northern Governors Shut Schools
