The Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) has ordered the immediate shutdown of all junior and senior schools across the state as insecurity affecting educational institutions intensifies nationwide.
The directive, issued on Friday and confirmed by the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Rechard John Samanja, takes effect from Saturday, November 22, for Government Junior Model Secondary Schools (GJMSS), while all primary and day schools are to close from Monday, November 24.
The Board described the move as a critical preventive measure aimed at safeguarding pupils and students from potential security threats.
Daily Trust reports that the development follows a wave of school attacks in Kebbi and Niger States, where dozens of students were abducted in separate incidents earlier in the week.
In its statement, PSUBEB said the decision was “temporary but necessary,” stressing that the government prioritises the safety and wellbeing of children amid the rising threat of coordinated attacks on learning centres.
“The Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board has directed the immediate closure of schools across the state,” the statement reads.
“This decision underscores the urgent need for preventive action. The Board assures parents, guardians, and stakeholders that this closure is a temporary but necessary step to forestall potential threats and reassure communities that the government is prioritizing the wellbeing of our learners.”
The Board also called on local government education authorities, school administrators, and community leaders to comply fully and maintain vigilance throughout the period of closure.
The directive comes as security agencies nationwide intensify operations following multiple school attacks, prompting state governments to introduce emergency measures to protect students.
