By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of 47 Unity Colleges across the country following heightened security concerns and recent attacks on schools in parts of northern Nigeria.
A circular released on Friday by the Federal Ministry of Education, signed by Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education, said the directive was approved by Education Minister Tunji Alausa.
The ministry said the decision became necessary in view of “emerging intelligence reports” and the need to forestall potential security breaches targeting federal schools.
The shutdown comes in the wake of renewed assaults on educational facilities. Last week, armed men invaded a girls’ secondary school in Kebbi State and abducted more than two dozen students.
Days later, another attack occurred in Niger State, raising national anxiety over the safety of schoolchildren.
Officials say the pattern of attacks has made precautionary measures unavoidable, prompting the temporary suspension of academic activities in Unity Schools considered vulnerable.
Although the government did not specify when the schools will reopen, the Education Ministry said the decision will remain in place until security agencies complete a fresh assessment of risks and certify the institutions safe for learning.
Authorities have also directed school administrators to work closely with state security formations to strengthen surveillance and reinforce protective measures.
The closure has stirred concern among parents, teachers and education advocates who fear the disruption could worsen an already strained academic calendar.
Many have urged the government to expedite security upgrades promised earlier in the year, including the N80 billion infrastructure improvement fund earmarked for Unity Schools.
The Federal Government maintains that the shutdown is temporary and in the best interest of students, adding that a review will be conducted in the coming days to determine the next steps.
