The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has given the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states 72 hours to reverse their decision to shut schools for five weeks during Ramadan or face nationwide protests.
In a statement on Monday, March 3, NANS National Public Relations Officer Samson Adeyemi described the policy as an attack on students’ right to uninterrupted education, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent.
“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS National Body) vehemently condemns the recent directive by the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to close schools during the holy month of Ramadan,” Adeyemi said.
“This policy is not only unjust but also a blatant infringement on the fundamental rights of students to receive uninterrupted education.”
He argued that the decision undermines academic progress, disrupts learning, and unfairly targets non-Muslim students.
“The Nigerian constitution, along with various international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory, guarantees the right to education for all citizens.
“The decision to close schools during Ramadan violates these principles and sets a dangerous precedent that prioritizes religious observances over the educational rights of students,” he added.
READ ALSO:Â CAN Fumes Over Ramadan School Closures, Threatens Legal Action
Adeyemi issued a strong warning, stating, “NANS demands the immediate reversal of this policy and issues a 72-hour ultimatum to the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to take corrective action and reopen schools.
“Failure to comply will result in nationwide protests and legal actions to protect the rights of Nigerian students.”
He also called on parents, educators, and civil society groups to support the student body in ensuring education remains a priority.
“We urge all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and civil society organisations, to join us in this fight to ensure that education remains a priority for all Nigerian students.
“We must work together to prevent any form of discrimination and uphold the principles of equality and justice,” he concluded.
Recall, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has also opposed the school closures, threatening legal action if the policy remains.
In a statement, CAN President Daniel Okoh called the decision discriminatory and warned it could worsen the education crisis in northern Nigeria, where 44% of the country’s out-of-school children are concentrated.