By Peter Ahemba, Lafia
NASARAWA State Government has directed the immediate closure of all public and private schools across the state as a measure to safeguard the lives of students of the affected schools.
There have been emerging security threats across the country, with reports suggesting likely breach of security in communities within the state, bordering the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The State Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Fatu Jamaita Sabo disclosed this yesterday while briefing journalists at the end of an expanded State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Lafia.
She noted that, having considered and reviewed the current situation in the country, especially regarding the security threats in the FCT, the state government decided to close both public and private schools in the state with immediate effect.
The commissioner maintained that the measure had become necessary considering the proximity of the state to the FCT, as well as the resolve of the government to ensure that schools in Nasarawa State operate within a safe environment.
She however pointed out that the directives exclude the exit classes that were already writing their final examinations, especially in secondary schools.
While announcing that her ministry will, in due course, issue a circular to that effect, the education commissioner however appealed to parents not to panic, adding that Nasarawa State was safe but that the decision was taken as a proactive step to safeguard the lives of both pupils and students across the state.
Hajiya Sabo equally appealed to principals and heads of respective schools, to also ensure the schools were closed in an orderly manner, especially that there was no threat to any life or property presently in Nasarawa State.
“We are appealing to parents not to panic. We all know that Nasarawa State is safe but this decision was taken as a proactive measure to ensure that our children are safe and continue to remain safe. That is for those within the state and those that came from other states to study here”, she added.
