By Segun Awofadeji, Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state following growing security concerns in northern Nigeria. The decision affects public, private and federal institutions at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels.

Government Cites Heightened Risk

According to a statement issued late Sunday by the Ministry of Education spokesperson, Jalaludeen Usman, the action follows extensive consultations with security agencies and community leaders. Usman said officials concluded that the safety of students, teachers and school environments could no longer be guaranteed.

He explained that the government considered the measure unavoidable given the “overwhelming security threats” reported in various communities. According to Punch, several states in the region have recently increased surveillance over fears of coordinated attacks by armed groups.

Public Reassured as Government Seeks Calm

Usman noted that the government recognises the disruption the closure may bring to families and academic schedules. However, he stressed that protecting children remains the state’s “highest moral responsibility.”

“Every child in Bauchi deserves to learn in a safe and stable environment,” the statement read. Parents, guardians and school proprietors were urged not to panic, but to remain calm as authorities work with security agencies to stabilise the situation.

State Promises Prompt Review

Officials say the shutdown is temporary and will be lifted once security assessments confirm that school activities can safely resume. Education policy analysts told THISDAY that the move aligns with similar measures adopted by other northern states facing heightened threats. They warned, however, that prolonged closures could deepen learning gaps already worsened by economic hardship.

Meanwhile, civil society groups in the state are calling for tightened intelligence gathering and long term investments in community safety to prevent recurring disruptions.

Looking Ahead

The government says updates will be communicated as developments unfold. For now, officials insist that safeguarding lives must take precedence over academic calendars.