Kebbi Kwara school reopening begins as both states resume classes after closures triggered by bandit attacks and security concerns
The Kebbi State Government and the Kwara State Government have announced the Kebbi Kwara school reopening, signalling a cautious return to academic activities after months of insecurity.
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In Kebbi State, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Halimatu Bande, approved the immediate resumption of selected primary and secondary schools.
Dr Bande made the announcement on Sunday during a media briefing in Birnin Kebbi.
The approval applies only to schools located in major cities and towns across the state.
Schools in rural communities remain closed and will reopen after further security improvements.
Kebbi ordered school closures in November after a bandit attack on Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.
During the attack, gunmen abducted 25 schoolgirls and killed a school security guard.
Dr Bande said resumption takes effect from Monday, January 5, 2026.
“Only schools within major cities and towns are approved to resume at this stage,” she said.
She explained that the phased approach prioritises student and teacher safety while restoring academic stability.
The commissioner directed Education Secretaries and Zonal Directors to monitor compliance across approved schools.
She urged parents and guardians to ensure the prompt return of pupils.
Dr Bande commended Governor Nasir Idris for sustained investment in education, describing the administration as committed to safe and inclusive learning.
Meanwhile, in Kwara State, the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development ordered the resumption of academic activities in most schools from Monday.
The directive was issued through the ministry’s Press Secretary, Peter Amogbonjaye.
He quoted the Commissioner for Education, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, as approving immediate resumption.
Learning will not resume in areas still under special security surveillance.
“Normal school activities will resume in such places very soon,” the statement said.
Kwara had shut schools in November 2025 across several local government areas, including Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke Ero.
The closures followed escalating bandit attacks and violent incidents.
To sustain learning, the ministry launched a radio-based education programme with UNICEF and the Nigeria Learning Passport.
The programme will air on 99.1 Midland FM from January 5.
Broadcasts are scheduled across multiple weekdays, with plans to add more stations.
Officials described the initiative as a vital lifeline for pupils still affected by insecurity.
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The coordinated reopening reflects a determined but measured effort to stabilise education amid ongoing security challenges.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
