Dare Babalola
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of 41 Federal Unity Colleges over rising security concerns.
The directive was issued through a circular dated November 21, 2025 and signed by the Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Binta Abdulkadir.
The ministry ordered the immediate closure of 41 schools across the North-West, North-East, North-Central, and parts of the South, directing principals of the affected institutions to comply forthwith.
“Sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches, the Honourable Minister of Education has approved the immediate closure of the listed Federal Unity Colleges.
“Principals of the affected colleges are to ensure strict compliance. Please accept the warm regards of the Honourable Minister,” the circular read.
The affected schools are FGGC Minjibir; FGA Suleja; FTC Ganduje; FGGC Zaria; FTC Kafancha; FGGC Bakori; FTC Dayi; FGC Daura; FGGC Tambuwal; FSC Sokoto; FTC Wurno; FGC Gusau; FGC Anka; FGGC Gwandu; FGC Birnin Yauri; FTC Zuru; FGGC Kazaure; FGC Kiyawa; FTC Hadejia; FGGC Bida; FGC New Bussa; and FTC Kuta-Shiroro.
Others are FGC Ilorin; FGGC Omu-Aran; FTC Gwanara; FGC Ugwolawo; FGGC Kabba; FTC Ogugu; FGGC Bwari; FGC Rubochi; FGGC Abaji; FGGC Potiskum; FGC Buni Yadi; FTC Gashau; FTC Michika; FGC Ganye; FGC Azare; FTC Misau; FGGC Bajoga; FGC Billiri; and FTC Zambuk.
In recent days, Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violent attacks and kidnappings, particularly in schools. On November 17, 2025, armed men stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, abducting 25 schoolgirls and killing Vice Principal Hassan Makuku, who attempted to resist the attackers.
This incident echoes a familiar pattern of pre-dawn raids, where attackers exploit weak security measures and low vigilance to overpower school defenses.
The Kebbi abduction is part of a broader wave of insecurity plaguing northern Nigeria. Just days later, on November 21, 2025, gunmen attacked St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, abducting dozens of students.
While the exact number of abducted students remains unclear, local media reports suggest around 52 students were taken. These incidents highlight the vulnerability of educational institutions in the region and the persistent threat posed by armed groups.
