The Bauchi State Government’s decision to close schools at all levels has sparked debate among parents and teachers, with opinions divided over whether the move will protect pupils or disrupt learning unnecessarily.
The directive, issued on Sunday, shut down public and private basic, secondary and tertiary institutions amid worsening attacks on schools in northern Nigeria.
For some residents, the action is a necessary safeguard. Parent Samuel Samson said the state had a responsibility to protect students before prioritising academic progress. “The kidnapping of pupils in the north is alarming. Let safety come first; learning can resume when there’s stability,” he said.
Another parent, Abdulwaheed Abubakar, said he believed the government was acting based on credible security information. “If there’s evidence of threats, this step is justified. It’s better to prevent than to react,” he added.
But teachers have expressed concerns over the impact on education. Teacher Olubunmi Adetoye labelled the decision “a setback”, arguing that only schools in high-risk areas should be affected. “Students in safe communities shouldn’t have their learning interrupted,” he said.
Similarly, teacher Adamu Musa urged the state to reconsider, noting that Bauchi is comparatively stable. “It would have been wise to monitor developments before shutting schools. If threats escalate, then such measures could follow,” he said.
The decision mirrors nationwide measures as authorities attempt to curb attacks on schools. The Federal Government has already closed 41 unity schools following kidnappings in Kebbi and Niger, while several state governments — including Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Niger and Katsina — have implemented similar shutdowns.
