The governments of Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano states have reaffirmed that schools will remain closed during the Ramadan fasting period, despite concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The decision, which affects both primary and secondary schools, was made following consultations with various stakeholders, including religious leaders and parents.
Speaking on the matter, Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, stated that the decision was reached after careful discussions.
“We are not reversing the decision. The closure of the schools was a result of meetings with all relevant stakeholders, including religious leaders, parents, and others. The leadership of CAN and the Muslim community were carried along before the decision was reached,” Idris said.
He also noted that the closure would last for about two weeks and would not disrupt the academic calendar.
In Kano State, the Director of Public Enlightenment at the Ministry of Education, Balarabe Kiru, maintained that the decision was final. He explained that it had been agreed upon at both the federal and state levels, with CAN representatives present at the discussions.
Similarly, Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Lawal Zayam, said that the school holiday was already included in the state’s academic calendar.
“We have not done anything extraordinary. Before we drafted the 2024/2025 session calendar, the stakeholders’ input was considered,” Zayam noted.
However, CAN has voiced strong opposition to the closures, particularly in states where schools have been shut for as long as five weeks. The group expressed concern that the decision could negatively impact students preparing for key exams, including the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and Junior Secondary School exams.
“We are worried about these closures, especially considering the setbacks already faced by students in most northern states due to rising insecurity. The decision could further hinder educational progress,” said CAN Northern Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab.
Hayab also pointed out that in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, schools remain open during Ramadan. He urged northern governors to consider alternative measures such as reducing school hours instead of shutting down institutions entirely.
Meanwhile, Yobe State has taken a different approach by keeping schools open but adjusting class hours. A visit to a primary school in Damaturu confirmed that classes were ongoing, with school closing times shortened to accommodate fasting students.
In addition to school closures, the Kebbi State Government has also announced reduced working hours for civil servants during Ramadan. According to Awwal Manu Dogondaji, the state’s Commissioner for Establishment, Pension, and Training, government offices will now operate from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and close at noon on Fridays. Normal working hours will resume after Ramadan.
