Nasarawa orders immediate closure of schools over security threat

The Nasarawa Government has ordered the immediate closure of public and private schools to safeguard students across the state.

This follows security threats across the the Federal Capital Territory with the government already in possession of reports suggesting likely security threats in communities within the state, bordering the FCT such as Gitata and Umaisha.

The decision to order the closure of schools across the state was part of the resolution arrived at during an expanded state executive council meeting on Wednesday.

The state Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Fatu Jimaita Sabo, said having considered and reviewed the current situation in the country, especially regarding the security threats in the FCT, the state government decided to close public and private schools with immediate effect.

Sabo said this has become necessary considering the proximity of the state to the FCT as well as the resolve of the government to ensure that schools in Nasarawa State, operate within a safe environment.

She, however, explained the directive excludes the exit classes already writing their final examinations, especially in secondary schools.

While announcing that her ministry will, in due course, issue a circular to that effect, the education commissioner however appealed to parents not to panic, adding that Nasarawa State is safe but that the decision was taken as a proactive step to safeguard the lives of both pupils and students across the state.

Sabo appealed to principals and heads to ensure the schools are closed in an orderly manner, especially that there is no threat to any life or property presently in Nasarawa State.