Rising Insecurity: Adamawa and Yobe Order Closure of All Boarding Schools
Amid renewed attacks on educational institutions across northern Nigeria, the Yobe State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all boarding secondary schools as a preventive measure to safeguard students.
The directive, issued by Governor Mai Mala Buni after a security briefing with heads of security agencies, follows rising concerns triggered by recent mass abductions in Niger and Kebbi states.
A statement from the governor’s media office confirmed that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has circulated notices directing an urgent shutdown of all boarding facilities. Governor Buni also appealed to citizens to support security efforts through prayers and cooperation.
In a parallel move, the Adamawa State Government announced the closure of all public and private boarding schools. Commissioner for Education, Dr. Umar Pella, said Governor Ahmadu Fintiri approved the decision after reviewing the pattern of recent attacks, which show that boarding students are being specifically targeted. All affected schools have been instructed to operate as day schools until the security situation improves.
The wave of closures adds Yobe and Adamawa to a growing list of states, including Kwara, Plateau, Katsina, Niger, and Taraba, that have taken similar steps in response to rising insecurity. The actions follow the kidnapping of students from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State, and another abduction in Maga, Kebbi State, intensifying fears for student safety across the region.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that it has not issued a nationwide directive for schools to shut down on November 24, 2025, warning the public against circulating unverified information.
Every child has the right to education, safety, and protection from all forms of violence, including the right to be free from abduction, threat, or harm.
This right requires governments and institutions to ensure that learning environments remain secure, that children are shielded from danger, and that temporary measures taken for their safety do not compromise their dignity or long-term access to education.
