The disruption of education in parts of Nigeria’s northern region has persisted with the Friday’s announcement by the Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, directing all private and public secondary schools in the state to immediately deboard their students.
The directive comes after several students from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, were kidnapped by terrorists on Friday, and only recently, the attack in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were kidnapped.
Issuing the directive in a statement on Friday, the Commissioner for Education, Taraba State, Dr. Augustina Godwin, said the decision to deboard schools, follows the escalating abduction targeting boarding students in both public and private secondary schools, pointing out the recent abductions of students in Kebbi and Niger states.
She explained that the governor has directed that all secondary schools, public and private, operate strictly as day schools until further notice.
“In light of the current circumstances, Governor Kefas has issued a directive requiring all secondary schools, both public and private, to function exclusively as day schools for the time being. Principals and school owners have been advised to promptly arrange for the deboarding of all students,” the statement added.
The measure, she explained, is a proactive step aimed at safeguarding students’ lives and preventing any security breaches linked to the growing unrest in the region.
Godwin said the state government has assured parents of its commitment to restoring stability and promised to continue working closely with security agencies to address the situation.
She stated that school authorities have also been urged to comply fully with the directive and enhance vigilance within their premises.
