The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has escalated its concerns regarding the extended Ramadan school closures in several northern states, issuing a firm ultimatum.
They are demanding the immediate reversal of directives from the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states, which mandate a five-week closure of educational institutions during the Islamic holy month.
CAN has characterized these closures as discriminatory, asserting that they infringe upon the fundamental rights of non-Muslim students. The organization is prepared to pursue legal action if the state governments fail to rescind their orders, signaling a serious escalation of the dispute.
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In a formal statement released in Abuja, CAN President Daniel Okoh expressed deep concern over the policy’s potential to exacerbate the existing educational crisis in the affected regions. He highlighted that these states already contribute significantly to Nigeria’s alarming number of out-of-school children, accounting for 44% of the national figure.
Okoh emphasized the critical importance of education as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of societal progress. He argued that the prolonged closure of schools, spanning from nursery to tertiary levels, would severely disrupt academic schedules and impede the educational advancement of millions of students
Furthermore, CAN criticized the lack of transparency and inclusive consultation surrounding the decision-making process. They argued that policies affecting diverse populations, including Muslims, Christians, and others, necessitate open and comprehensive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors.
Drawing comparisons with predominantly Islamic nations, CAN pointed out that countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where Ramadan is deeply observed, do not resort to complete school closures. Instead, they implement flexible schedules, such as shortened hours, to accommodate both religious observance and educational continuity.
CAN reiterated its commitment to fostering interfaith harmony but stressed that it would not tolerate policies that undermine constitutional rights. The association called upon the governors of the affected states to engage in constructive dialogue with all stakeholders to find a resolution.
Finally, CAN appealed for calm among residents of the affected states, urging unity and cooperation to ensure that no child’s education is compromised. They emphasized the importance of building a society where faith and progress coexist harmoniously.
