Governments in Taraba, Kebbi and Kwara states have directed partial reopenings of public and private schools following last year's closures due to insecurity. The directives limit operations to safer areas, with boarding facilities remaining closed in Taraba and remote schools exempted elsewhere. This phased approach aims to balance education access with student safety amid ongoing security concerns.
Public and private schools in Taraba, Kebbi and Kwara states are set to partially resume operations on January 5, 2026, after being closed last year due to heightened insecurity, including kidnappings and attacks on educational institutions.
In Taraba, the state government has mandated day-only schedules, keeping boarding houses closed. Education Commissioner Augustina Godwin explained that the measure responds to a nationwide surge in school-related incidents, noting that boarding facilities have become particularly vulnerable. Education stakeholders have raised concerns about deepening inequality, as boarding schools have long provided access for students from remote areas. The Christian Reformed Church–Nigeria (CRC-N), in a communiqué from its 161st General Church Council in Takum, acknowledged the real threats but warned that closing boarding options could undermine national development.
Kebbi's government directed schools in urban centers to resume immediately. Basic and Secondary Education Commissioner Dr. Halima Muhammad-Bande, briefing journalists in Birnin Kebbi, emphasized that remote and outskirts institutions are exempt until further notice. She assured, “The state government has put in place adequate security measures to ensure the safety of pupils, students and teachers in the affected schools.” The commissioner appealed to parents to allow their children to return, stating the government is doing everything possible to secure reopening schools.
Similarly, Kwara's Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development announced reopenings except in areas under special security surveillance. Press Secretary Peter Amogbonjaye conveyed the directive, while Commissioner Lawal Olohungbebe added, “We welcome our children and teachers back to school across the state. Learning activities are to resume immediately in all but areas earlier identified to be under special security surveillance.” This follows assessments of the security situation and ongoing operations by agencies, with the phased plan protecting pupils during continued efforts in affected communities.
These measures reflect broader challenges in Nigeria's north-central region, where insecurity has disrupted education for months.
