FG Moves to Reopen Schools Closed for Ramadan.

The Federal Government has begun negotiations with state governments to facilitate the reopening of schools that were shut down in observance of Ramadan, Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, has revealed.

Addressing journalists in Yola on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, Ahmad acknowledged the importance of religious observances but emphasized the need to safeguard academic continuity.

“We are actively engaging with state governments to find a workable solution,” she stated. “Education is a priority, and while we respect the significance of Ramadan, we must ensure that our students are not unduly affected by prolonged closures.”

In several states with significant Muslim populations, schools were temporarily shut to allow students and staff to participate in fasting and religious activities. However, the move has sparked concerns among parents and education stakeholders, particularly as national examinations approach.

Ahmad assured Nigerians that the Federal Ministry of Education is collaborating with state authorities to strike a balance between religious obligations and academic schedules. She highlighted potential solutions, including adjusted school hours and supplementary classes to make up for lost time.

“Our goal is to reopen schools as soon as possible while remaining sensitive to the cultural and religious context,” she added.

Education advocates have welcomed the Federal Government’s intervention, with many calling for a standardized policy to prevent recurrent disruptions.

“It’s commendable that the FG is stepping in,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a teacher in Adamawa State. “But we need a long-term framework to ensure this doesn’t become an annual challenge.”

As discussions progress, the nation awaits concrete steps to address the issue, ensuring that students can return to classrooms without compromising their faith or their future.