Niger State to Reopen Schools January 12 After Security Review

Story: written by Uzyh Rita January 3,2026
The Niger State Government has approved the reopening of schools across the state following weeks of closure triggered by the abduction of pupils, students, and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Hadiza Asebe Mohammed, announced that all affected schools will resume academic activities on January 12, 2026, with the approval of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.

In a statement, the commissioner said the decision covers both public and private schools and comes after all abducted persons were successfully rescued by security agencies after spending weeks in captivity.

She explained that the reopening followed thorough security evaluations and wide consultations with relevant security bodies, in line with the governor’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

According to her, schools located in areas still classified as unsafe will remain closed for now, pending further security clearance.

Dr Mohammed added that security agencies are currently conducting assessments of all school facilities to confirm their safety ahead of the scheduled resumption date.