The Zamfara State Government has ruled out the mass closure of schools despite a recent wave of student abductions, choosing instead to implement enhanced, undisclosed security measures to protect learning centres.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, during an event in Gusau.
It comes amid a tense climate following major abductions in neighbouring Kebbi and Niger states, which triggered a wave of school shutdowns across the region.
“We have already done what we are supposed to do,” Commissioner Madawaki stated, addressing concerns over student safety. “When you talk about security, you do not disclose your actions to the media. But we have taken steps to safeguard the interests of our students. The security of the schools and children is well taken care of.”
He emphasized that the state is in close contact with security agencies to ensure schools can operate without hindrance. “We believe nothing will happen, and our education will continue to flourish until the end of the academic term,” he added.
Madawaki explained that a key reason for Zamfara’s ability to remain open is its current school system. Unlike the states ordering mass closures, which largely operate boarding schools, Zamfara has suspended its boarding system due to insecurity and now runs primarily day schools.
“Bandits often strike at night when people are asleep. Here, we are yet to resume our boarding system. Our schools run during the day,” the Commissioner said, outlining the state’s risk assessment.
He further clarified that the government is not applying a blanket policy, noting that schools in areas with persistent insecurity have already been closed individually. “Where there is relative peace, we have allowed students to continue since the term is almost ending,” Madawaki said, adding that the government is prepared to extend holidays if necessary.
The state’s higher institutions, which do have boarding facilities, are already on an extended holiday until January to allow for a security reassessment.
Zamfara’s stance sets it apart from its peers. In recent days, states including Katsina, Taraba, Plateau, Kebbi, and Bauchi have either closed schools or shifted to a strict day-school model. The Federal Government also ordered the closure of all 47 Unity Colleges nationwide.
This regional reaction was prompted by the abduction of 25 students in Kebbi and the kidnapping of nearly 300 pupils and staff from a school in Niger State, incidents that have drawn national condemnation and prompted President Bola Tinubu to direct defence chiefs to lead rescue operations.
By opting for fortified security over shutdowns, the Zamfara government aims to prevent further disruption to education while betting that its targeted measures will be enough to deter attacks.
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