Kebbi State Keeps Schools Closed Over Bandit Threats

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State announced that schools in areas affected by bandit attacks will remain closed until the security situation improves. The decision, taken about seven months ago, is presented as a non‑political measure to protect students and teachers. In a statement, Special Adviser Abdullahi Idris said, “The safety of our children cannot be subjected to politics or blackmail.”

The state has deployed hundreds of vehicles and motorcycles, increased military and mobile police presence, and provided logistical support to security agencies. Kebbi’s governor has consulted security chiefs, traditional rulers, academics, religious leaders and fellow governors to seek lasting solutions. Northern governors and traditional rulers recently met in Kaduna and agreed to establish a Joint Security Fund, to be chaired by former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Martin Agwai and former SGF Yayale Ahmed, with each participating state contributing ₦1 billion monthly. The government urged parents, community leaders and patriotic citizens to continue supporting the security efforts and the eventual safe reopening of schools. Similar prolonged school closures have occurred in Borno and other northern states due to insecurity.