CAN Challenges School Shutdowns Decision In Northern States
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has raised concerns over the decision to close all schools in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States during Ramadan, describing the move as a violation of students’ rights and a troubling precedent for governance.
CAN has called on the governors of these states to engage in discussions with key stakeholders—including religious leaders, school owners, parents, and civil society groups—to reconsider the decision and explore more inclusive solutions.
In a statement, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh expressed the association’s strong opposition, stating:
“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 acknowledge the importance of faith, these decisions raise serious issues regarding equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.”
CAN stressed that education is a fundamental right and a key driver of national progress. The association warned that shutting down schools from nursery to tertiary levels for an extended period would disrupt academic schedules and hinder the educational advancement of millions of students.
Highlighting the existing challenge of out-of-school children, CAN pointed out that Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi already have an average out-of-school rate of 44%, far above the national average. The association cautioned that such prolonged closures could further deepen the crisis and undermine efforts to expand access to quality education.
CAN also expressed disappointment over the lack of broad consultation before these directives were issued. The association noted that its leadership in the affected states had not been adequately engaged despite claims of stakeholder involvement. It emphasised that policies impacting diverse populations—including Muslims, Christians, and others—should be developed through transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school administrators. The absence of such engagement, CAN warned, could erode trust and national unity in Nigeria’s diverse society.
See Also: March 3rd: Today In World Christian History
Drawing comparisons with other Muslim-majority countries, CAN pointed out that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—where Islam is central and Ramadan is highly revered—do not close schools for the entire fasting period. Instead, they adjust schedules by shortening school hours or providing flexibility to accommodate religious observances while ensuring educational continuity. CAN urged northern Nigerian states to adopt a similar approach rather than enforcing prolonged closures.
Appealing to the residents of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi—including both Christians and Muslims—CAN urged calm and peaceful engagement on the matter. While reaffirming its commitment to interfaith harmony, the association stressed that the rights of students and families who do not observe Ramadan must not be ignored.
The statement continued:
“We therefore request that Governors Bala Mohammed, Dikko Umar Radda, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Nasir Idris open channels of dialogue with key stakeholders—religious bodies, school owners, parents, and civil society—to reassess these directives and explore more inclusive solutions.
Transparency is essential, and we expect these governments to act in good faith by promptly engaging all parties. The education of our children and the unity of our states are at stake.”
CAN further warned that if these policies remain in place or if dialogue fails to yield a fair resolution, the association is prepared to take legal action. It stated that it would seek court orders to protect students’ constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.
“Our pursuit of peace does not weaken our commitment to justice. Should these rights continue to be at risk, CAN will take legal steps to uphold education and fundamental freedoms.”
In conclusion, CAN urged the governors of the affected states to reconsider their stance in the interest of fairness and national unity. It called for a society where faith and progress coexist, ensuring that no child’s education is disrupted and that all communities are valued.
SOURCE: https://parallelfactsnews.com/
Content Credit| Agbetan Bisola
Picture Credit | https://www.aciafrica.org/
