Despite concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the governments of Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano states have firmly stated that their decision to close primary and secondary schools during the Ramadan fasting period will not be reversed.These states maintain that the closures were implemented after thorough consultations with all relevant stakeholders.
In Kebbi State, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ahmed Idris, emphasized that the school closures resulted from meetings involving religious leaders, parents, and other key figures. He clarified that the decision was made with the full participation and agreement of both CAN and the Muslim community. Idris also assured that the closures would not disrupt the academic calendar, as they were already factored into the planned school year.
READ:https://naijanewswatch.com/christian-association-of-nigeria-can-has-escalated-its-concerns/
Similarly, in Kano State, the Director of Public Enlightenment in the Ministry of Education, Balarabe Kiru, reiterated that the decision was reached after extensive stakeholder meetings, including representation from CAN at the federal level. He affirmed that the State Executive Council had approved the academic calendar, making a reversal impossible.
The Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Lawal Zayam, echoed these sentiments, stating that the school holiday was part of the 2024/2025 academic calendar, developed with stakeholder input. He highlighted that private school owners, including a Christian state chairman, were involved in the decision-making process. Zayam also confirmed that the school closures would not significantly impact the academic year, as students would have two weeks of studies before transitioning to the third term
However, CAN, representing the 19 northern states and Abuja, strongly condemned the school closures, particularly in Kebbi, Bauchi, Katsina, and Kano. The Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, expressed concern that the closures would negatively affect students preparing for crucial examinations and exacerbate existing educational challenges. He also pointed out that many affected children are too young to observe fasting
Hayab further highlighted the educational disparities in these states, citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics. He argued that even predominantly Islamic countries keep schools open during Ramadan and suggested that reducing school hours would be a more practical solution. He also claimed that Islamic scholars confirmed the closures were politically motivated.
Consequently, CAN called on the northern governors to reconsider their decision and prioritize education. They urged the governors to avoid presenting the region in a negative light and to address the matter amicably. CAN also called for calm and law-abiding behavior, urging stakeholders to find a resolution.
Meanwhile, Yobe State has chosen not to close schools for Ramadan, with classes continuing with adjusted hours. The proprietor of Sarki Musa Memorial Academy, Prof. Musa Tukur, confirmed that school hours had been shortened, and Quranic classes were temporarily suspended.
Additionally, the Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, approved a reduction in working hours for civil servants during Ramadan. The state’s Commissioner for Establishment, Pension and Training, Awwal Manu Dogondaji, announced the new working hours, which will be in effect until the end of Ramadan. He also called for prayers for peace and stability.
