The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged caution over directives by several Northern states mandating the closure of all schools, including private institutions, for five weeks to observe this year’s Ramadan, warning that such measures could exacerbate the region’s educational crisis.
In a statement issued on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, highlighted that Northern Nigeria already faces a high rate of out-of-school children, and such an extended school closure could further deteriorate the situation.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s religious diversity and the importance of allowing free religious practice, CAN emphasized that these decisions raise concerns about educational continuity, equity, and the overall welfare of citizens.
CAN’s statement reads: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) views with grave concern the directives by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States mandating the closure of all schools—public and private—for up to five weeks to observe the Ramadan fast, effective from late February to early April 2025.
“While we respect the religious diversity of our nation and the significance of faith, these decisions pose serious challenges regarding fairness, educational continuity, and the welfare of all students, irrespective of their religious beliefs.
“Education is a fundamental right and a pillar of national progress. The prolonged closure of schools, from nursery to tertiary levels, disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students.
“These states—Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi—already have some of the highest rates of out-of-school children in the country, with an average of 44%, far exceeding the national figure. Extending school closures for such a duration risks worsening this crisis and undermining efforts to improve access to quality education.”
CAN also raised concerns about the lack of broad consultation before implementing these directives. “The apparent lack of adequate stakeholder engagement, particularly with CAN leadership in these states, is troubling. Policies affecting diverse populations—Muslims, Christians, and others—require transparent, inclusive discussions involving parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors. The absence of such engagement weakens trust and social cohesion in our diverse society.”
Drawing comparisons with Islamic-majority nations, CAN pointed out that even in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where Ramadan is deeply revered, schools are not entirely shut down. Instead, they adapt schedules by shortening hours or offering flexible learning options to balance education with religious observance.
“If these Islamic heartlands can maintain this equilibrium, Nigeria’s northern states should strive for similar pragmatism. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from reasonable precedent,” CAN stated.
CAN urged residents of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi—regardless of religious affiliation—to remain calm and peaceful while discussions on the matter continue. “We are committed to fostering harmony across faiths, and we encourage our members and the general public to avoid actions that could escalate tensions.”
However, the association cautioned that it cannot ignore the potential violation of students’ rights and the precedent such a policy sets for equitable governance.
“We therefore call on Governors Bala Mohammed, Dikko Umar Radda, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Nasir Idris to initiate dialogues with key stakeholders—religious bodies, school administrators, parents, and civil society—to reassess these directives and seek inclusive solutions. Transparency is essential, and we expect these governments to act in good faith by engaging all relevant parties without delay. The future of our children and the unity of our states are at stake.”
CAN further warned that if these rights continue to be compromised or if dialogue fails to yield a fair resolution, it is prepared to take legal action to protect students’ constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.
“Our pursuit of peace does not diminish our commitment to justice. If necessary, we will seek restraining orders through the courts to ensure that no student’s education is unduly hindered by these policies.”
The statement concluded with a call for unity, urging Nigerians to work towards a society where religious practice and educational progress coexist harmoniously. “Let us strive for a nation where no child’s education is compromised and where every community is valued. We urge the governors to reconsider these policies in the spirit of fairness and national cohesion.”
