Ramadan: FG Appeals To Northern States To Reopen Schools
The Federal Government has called on the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano states to reconsider their decision to shut down state-owned schools for Ramadan.
The Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, speaking on Channels Television, expressed concern that the closure would lead to significant loss of learning time.
She revealed that the Federal Ministry of Education had initiated discussions with the four state governments to reopen the schools.
However, she acknowledged that the Federal Government had no direct control over state-owned institutions.
The decision to shut down schools for Ramadan has sparked widespread outrage, particularly in northern states with predominantly Muslim populations.
Critics argue that the closure negatively impacts education in a region already struggling with high levels of poverty and illiteracy.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) condemned the move, describing it as “counterproductive, discriminatory, and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students.”
CAN warned that suspending academic activities for five weeks could further deepen the educational crisis in the region. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria had about 18.3 million out-of-school children as of 2024.
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Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), earlier reviewed by SaharaReporters, shows that the affected states—Katsina, Kebbi, Kano, and Bauchi—already have some of the highest percentages of out-of-school children in the country.
Bauchi tops the list, with 54% of children lacking access to education, followed by Kebbi (45%), Katsina (38%), and Kano (35%). The combined average for these states stands at 44%, significantly higher than the national average of 34%.
Amid the controversy, the Katsina State government reinforced its stance by ordering the closure of all private schools during Ramadan. In a circular issued by the state’s Hisbah Board, authorities warned that non-compliance would result in consequences.
“In accordance with the Katsina State Government’s directive, all private schools are required to close during the Ramadan period to allow pupils to fully observe the holy month,” the statement read.
“The directive also includes extra lessons. The Hisbah Board urges all school proprietors to strictly comply, as non-compliance will not be tolerated.” It concluded with prayers: “May Allah accept our fast and grant us His blessings.”
Similarly, Bauchi State also directed private schools to shut down for five weeks, from February 26 to April 5, covering Ramadan and the Salah celebration.
According to the official academic calendar, the second term was divided into two phases, with a five-week break in between.
The policy has led to growing discontent, with education advocates and parents expressing frustration.
Despite the backlash, the affected state governments remain firm in their decision, insisting that the closure aligns with the religious obligations of the majority Muslim population.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
