Clarifying the Misinformation
The Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria has publicly dismissed a circulating message claiming that all schools across the country were ordered to shut from 24 November 2025 due to terror attacks. In a statement issued on 22 November 2025, the ministry labeled the message as false, highlighting the dangers of misinformation in a time of heightened security concerns. The ministry’s clarification comes as parents, students, and school administrators seek reliable guidance amid reports of violence around the country.
What the Ministry Said
According to the press statement, the ministry did not issue any directive mandating a nationwide school shutdown. The agency emphasized that no official communication of that nature had been released to schools, local education authorities, or the media. Officials urged stakeholders to rely on updates from official channels and to verify information before sharing it widely. This stance aligns with recent efforts to counter false narratives that can disrupt learning and upward mobility for Nigerian children.
Context: Security Concerns and School Safety
Nigeria has faced a period of security challenges, including incidents near some educational institutions. While the government is committed to safeguarding students and staff, a blanket shutdown of schools would have far-reaching consequences for education, livelihoods, and the country’s development goals. Education advocates caution that closing schools en masse could deprive millions of pupils of essential learning and widen existing educational gaps. In response, authorities have prioritized targeted safety measures, communications strategies, and contingency planning to protect schools while keeping them open where possible.
Practical steps for schools and families
With the absence of an official closure notice, schools are urged to maintain robust safety protocols. These include reinforced perimeter security, controlled access points, regular awareness drills, and clear reporting lines for suspicious activity. Families are encouraged to stay informed through official education ministry updates, school announcements, and credible news outlets. If threats emerge in a specific locality, education officials typically coordinate with law enforcement to decide on necessary precautions that are proportionate to the risk level.
What parents can do now
- Monitor official communications from the Federal Ministry of Education and state education authorities.
- Discuss safety plans with school administrators and understand emergency procedures.
- Avoid sharing unverified messages on social media that could cause panic.
Why This matters for Nigerian students
Accurate information is crucial for maintaining normal schooling and minimizing disruption to learning. When misinformation spreads, it can lead to unnecessary fear, confusion, and a drop in school attendance. The education sector remains focused on ensuring uninterrupted access to quality teaching and learning, while implementing practical safety measures to protect students, teachers, and staff in communities where security incidents occur.
Looking ahead
As Nigeria navigates security concerns, the Education Ministry’s commitment to transparency and verified communications will be essential. Stakeholders should expect regular updates from official sources and clear guidance on school operations during times of heightened risk. In the meantime, the priority remains safeguarding learning environments and ensuring that students can continue to pursue education without interruption.
