THIS DAWN — The Federal Government has directed the immediate closure of 47 Federal Unity Colleges across the country, citing worsening security threats in several states.
The directive was issued through a circular dated November 21, 2025, signed by Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Morufu Olatunji Alausa.
According to the circular, the decision was taken in response to “recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches.”
Principals of the affected schools were instructed to enforce the shutdown without delay.
This move comes amid a surge in violent attacks targeting schools and religious institutions.
Just days earlier, terrorists abducted 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, killing the Vice Principal.
In Kaduna State, armed bandits kidnapped Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal, Parish Priest of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church.
Meanwhile, worshippers in Kwara State were attacked during Sunday service at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku.
The closure of nearly half of Nigeria’s 104 Unity Colleges underscores the gravity of the current security crisis.
These schools, established to foster national integration and academic excellence, now face disruption of learning activities as parents and students grapple with uncertainty.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern over the impact of the shutdown on academic calendars and national cohesion.
While many welcome the government’s precautionary measure, others warn that prolonged closures could undermine confidence in the country’s education system.
The Ministry of Education has assured Nigerians that the safety of students remains paramount and pledged to work closely with security agencies to restore normalcy.
However, critics argue that the closures highlight the government’s inability to secure schools, calling for more decisive action against banditry and terrorism.
For now, the fate of thousands of students hangs in the balance as Nigeria confronts one of its most pressing national challenges: safeguarding education in the face of relentless insecurity.
