The governments of Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano States have firmly stated that the holiday granted to primary and secondary schools during the Ramadan fasting period will not be reconsidered, despite concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The states emphasized that the decision was made after thorough consultations with stakeholders, including religious leaders and parents, and is aimed at accommodating the observance of Ramadan without disrupting the academic calendar.
Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State governor, explained that the decision to close schools was reached following meetings with relevant stakeholders, including CAN representatives and Muslim leaders. He emphasized that the holiday, which will last a maximum of two weeks, was already factored into the academic calendar and would not disrupt school activities.
“The closure of schools was a result of consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including religious leaders and parents. CAN and the Muslim community were fully involved in the decision-making process,” Idris stated. He added that the academic calendar had already accounted for such breaks, ensuring no disruption to the school year.
Similarly, Balarabe Kiru, Director of Public Enlightenment in Kano State’s Ministry of Education, confirmed that the decision to close schools was irreversible. He noted that the move was approved during a stakeholders’ meeting at both the federal and state levels, with CAN representatives present.
“The State Executive Council and all stakeholders agreed on the academic calendar. There is no going back on this decision,” Kiru said.
In Bauchi State, the Commissioner for Education, Lawal Zayam, echoed this stance, stating that the Ramadan holiday was included in the 2024/2025 academic calendar from the outset. He emphasized that the decision was driven by stakeholders, including private school owners, whose state chairman is a Christian.
“We consulted widely before drafting the academic calendar. This decision was not made in isolation, and it does not affect the academic schedule,” Zayam explained.
However, CAN in the 19 northern states and Abuja has criticized the school closures, expressing concern over the potential impact on students preparing for critical examinations, such as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Junior Secondary School exams. In a statement, Northern CAN Chairman Rev. John Joseph Hayab argued that the closures could exacerbate existing educational challenges in the region, particularly in states already grappling with high poverty rates and insecurity.
Hayab pointed out that even in predominantly Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, schools remain open during Ramadan, with adjusted hours to accommodate fasting students. He urged northern governors to adopt a similar approach, reducing school hours instead of shutting down entirely.
“Closing schools for five weeks is unnecessary and counterproductive. It will only worsen the educational setbacks faced by students in the region,” Hayab said. He also noted that many affected children are under 14 and may not yet be religiously obligated to fast.
In contrast, Yobe State has opted against closing schools during Ramadan. Instead, school hours have been adjusted to end at noon, allowing students to observe fasting without disrupting their education. Quranic classes have also been temporarily suspended to accommodate the changes.
Meanwhile, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has approved reduced working hours for civil servants during Ramadan. State workers will now work from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and until 12 p.m. on Fridays. Normal working hours will resume after Ramadan.
As the debate continues, CAN has called on northern governors to reconsider their stance, urging them to prioritize education and adopt measures that balance religious observance with academic progress. The association also appealed for calm and urged stakeholders to address the issue amicably.
