Adamawa Government Closes All Boarding Schools Over Rising Kidnappings and Attacks

The Adamawa State Government has taken a strong security step by ordering all public and private boarding schools in the state to shut down immediately. This decision comes as Nigeria continues to face increasing attacks, especially targeted at schools.

The announcement was made on Saturday in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Education and Human Development, Dr. Umar Pella. He explained that Governor Ahmadu Fintiri approved the closure to prevent a repeat of the recent kidnappings of students in Niger and Kebbi States.

According to the commissioner, the government is worried that boarding schools have now become the main targets of criminals who attack schools, kidnap students, and demand ransom. He noted that the situation across the country has become too dangerous to ignore.

Dr. Pella said the government made the decision after reviewing the security threats facing schools. He added that both public and private boarding schools must immediately convert to day schools to keep students safe.

He stated, “With the recent incidents in Niger and Kebbi States, it has become clear that boarding schools are being targeted. His Excellency, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, has directed that all boarding schools in Adamawa State should deboard their students without delay. All schools must operate as day schools for now.”

This move follows similar actions taken by other states that are also battling rising insecurity. Recently, Kwara, Plateau, Katsina, and Niger States shut down or deboarded schools due to fear of attacks. In Taraba State, Governor Agbu Kefas also ordered both public and private schools to send all boarding students home immediately.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that it has not issued any nationwide order for schools to close on November 24, 2025. The ministry said any closure decision must come from each state government, based on its security assessment.

The closure in Adamawa shows how deeply insecurity is affecting education in Nigeria. Many parents are worried about the safety of their children, and schools are struggling to continue normal learning activities. Until the security situation improves, states are expected to continue taking protective measures to safeguard students.