The Plateau State Government has directed the immediate closure of all public and private schools across the state following rising security threats targeting educational institutions. The decision, announced on Friday, comes amid heightened fears of potential attacks by criminal elements who have intensified assaults in several northern states in recent weeks.
According to the Commissioner for Education, the directive affects all levels of learning, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. He explained that the move is a proactive safety measure taken after intelligence reports warned of planned assaults on soft targets, particularly schools located in rural and vulnerable communities.
“The safety of our children and educational personnel is our top priority,” the Commissioner said. “All schools are to suspend academic activities until further notice while government works closely with security agencies to stabilize the situation.”
Security operatives have reportedly been deployed to strategic locations to prevent any breach of peace, while surveillance has been increased around major highways and school clusters. The government also appealed to parents and guardians to ensure that children remain in safe environments during the shutdown.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions across the state. While some residents commended the government for prioritizing safety, others expressed concern over the disruption of academic activities, especially for students preparing for major examinations.
Educational stakeholders are expected to meet in the coming days to discuss possible remote learning alternatives should the closure extend longer than anticipated.
The government assured that schools will only reopen once a comprehensive security review confirms that the environment is safe for teaching and learning to resume.
