The Federal Government has reversed its earlier decision and reopened 47 Federal Unity Colleges across the country. This comes one month after the schools were shut down due to rising cases of abduction and insecurity.
According to the government, academic activities have resumed following the strengthening of security measures within and around the affected schools. The decision was announced in a statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.
The statement reassured parents, guardians, and the general public that the safety, welfare, and well-being of students remain the government’s top priority. It also emphasized that the Ministry of Education will continue to work closely with relevant security agencies to maintain stability and ensure a safe learning environment nationwide.
Students Return Safely to School
The Ministry confirmed that students have returned safely to their campuses. While many are currently concluding their December academic programmes, others have already completed their examinations.
The statement further stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting every Nigerian child and upholding their right to education in a secure and supportive environment.
Education Remains a National Priority
According to the Ministry, the current administration places strong emphasis on human capital development and recognizes education as a critical pillar for national growth. As a result, the government is determined to avoid unnecessary disruptions to the academic calendar.
The safe return of students and the successful conduct of examinations in several Unity Colleges, the statement noted, reflect the government’s resolve to keep learning on track despite ongoing security challenges.
The Ministry also expressed appreciation to parents, school administrators, and students for their patience, cooperation, and support. It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining a secure, stable, and uninterrupted education system across Nigeria.
Background to the School Closures
Recall that the Federal Government had ordered the temporary closure of 47 Unity Colleges last month following a surge in school abduction cases nationwide. The directive was issued through a circular signed by Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education at the Federal Ministry of Education.
The decision followed several tragic incidents, including the abduction of 303 students and 12 teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, in November 2025. This incident ranked among the largest mass school abductions in Nigeria’s recent history.
Out of the abducted students, 50 reportedly escaped, 100 were later released, while more than 150 remain in captivity. In a similar incident, about 25 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a boarding school in Kebbi State but were later freed.
Conclusion
The reopening of the 47 Federal Unity Colleges marks an important step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s education system. While security challenges remain a serious concern, the government’s decision shows a renewed commitment to protecting students and ensuring that learning continues without prolonged disruption. Education remains a powerful tool for national development, and safeguarding schools is essential to securing Nigeria’s future. As students return to their classrooms, sustained security efforts and continuous collaboration with relevant agencies will be critical to preventing a repeat of past incidents.
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