Ramadan: FG Orders Bauchi, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano Governors To Reopen Schools

By Akinwale Kasali

Following the condemnations that have trailed the closure of piblic and private Schools in Kebbi, Kano, Katsina and Bauchi States by their Governors due to the Ramadan, the Federal Government has ordered the immediate reopening of

The Federal Government condemned the  Governors of the aforementioned States for sending children away from school to observe Ramadan.

Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education said that: “There is no religious basis for shutting down schools during Ramadan. Even in countries like Saudi Arabia, which are recognised as Muslim Nations, educational institutions continue to function normally during this period”.

Ahmad however acknowledged the autonomy of the States in managing their education systems but insisted that “closing schools for Ramadan is unnecessary and detrimental to student learning.”

According to UNICEF, Nigeria has 18.3 million out-of-school children, with Bauchi having the highest rate of 54 per cent, followed by Kebbi with 45 per cent. Katsina has 38 per cent, and Kano is fourth with 35 per cent.

Prior to this, the decision of the Governors to close down Schools due to Ramadan had been widely condemned.

The FG’s now order has been applauded by a large numbers of Nigerians, Muslims included.