Yobe Government Orders Closure of All Boarding Schools Over Rising Security Threats

The Yobe State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all boarding secondary schools across the state due to growing security concerns and the increasing threat of student abductions by terrorist groups.

Governor Mai Mala Buni issued the directive after a security meeting with heads of security agencies. According to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the measure is a precaution aimed at preventing possible attacks on schools, especially following recent security incidents in parts of northern Nigeria.

In an official notice, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Bukar Aji Bukar, instructed all boarding students to leave their hostels at once. He stated that the schools will remain closed until there is clear improvement in the security situation. The government said the decision is necessary to avoid any attempt by armed groups to target students, a pattern that has affected several states in the region.

Although Yobe has not recorded a major school abduction in recent weeks, officials say the decision follows intelligence reports and incidents from nearby states that raised concerns about student safety. The governor called on residents to cooperate with security agencies and to pray for lasting peace in the state.

The closure is expected to affect many students, especially those who depend on boarding facilities because of long travel distances or difficult living conditions. Education experts warn that if the shutdown continues for too long, it may disrupt learning and increase the risk of students dropping out of school.

The government has not yet announced any alternative learning plans or a date for reopening the schools. Officials say further information will be provided when the security situation shows signs of improvement.