The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong opposition to recent directives by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states that mandated a five-week closure of schools for the Ramadan fast. In a statement released on Sunday, February 25, 2025, CAN condemned the decision, describing it as discriminatory and a violation of the rights of non-Muslim students in these regions. The association has demanded that the governments reverse the closures or face legal action.
The controversial directive requires schools in these states, from nursery levels up to tertiary institutions, to close for the duration of Ramadan. CAN argues that the closure would disrupt academic schedules, potentially exacerbating Nigeria’s already dire educational crisis, particularly in the northern regions, which are home to a significant proportion of the country’s out-of-school children.
CAN’s President, Daniel Okoh, voiced his concerns about the policy, stating that the closure would have far-reaching consequences on students’ education, especially in states that already suffer from one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in the country. According to recent reports, northern Nigeria accounts for about 44% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children, a situation that has been a longstanding issue for the region. Okoh emphasized that education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress for any nation.
“The closure of schools across these states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students,” Okoh stated, adding that the policy would do more harm than good.
The issue stems from the growing concern among religious and educational groups in Nigeria about balancing religious practices with the right to education. The closure of schools during Ramadan, while understandable in a religious context, raises questions about how best to accommodate both religious observance and the academic needs of students from diverse religious backgrounds.
According to Okoh, the decision to close schools was made without adequate consultation with relevant stakeholders, including Christian leaders, educators, parents, and other community members. The lack of transparency and inclusive dialogue is a key point of contention for CAN. The association believes that policies affecting a pluralistic society like Nigeria should be developed through a process of consultation and open dialogue to foster trust and unity.
“Policies impacting diverse populations—Muslims, Christians, and others—demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors,” Okoh said. “The absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in our pluralistic society.”
CAN’s call for inclusivity echoes concerns from many sectors of Nigerian society about the need for policies that consider the interests of all groups, not just one religion or community. In this case, the closure of schools for Ramadan is seen as favouring one religious group while disregarding the educational rights of others, which CAN sees as unacceptable.
In his statement, Okoh pointed to international examples, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to argue that Nigeria should seek a more balanced approach to the Ramadan season and education. Both countries, where Islam plays a central role in society, do not close schools entirely during Ramadan. Instead, they adapt school schedules, either shortening the school day or offering flexibility to accommodate the fasting hours.
“Globally, nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—where Islam is central and Ramadan deeply revered—do not shut down schools for the entire fasting period,” Okoh said. “Instead, they adapt schedules, shortening hours or offering flexibility, to balance education with religious practice. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent.”
The call for a more pragmatic approach reflects the need to balance the educational needs of children with respect for religious observances. CAN is advocating for a solution that does not come at the expense of children’s futures, regardless of their faith.
The Christian Association of Nigeria has issued a clear ultimatum to the affected state governments. They are demanding that the school closure orders be reversed. If the governments fail to respond positively, CAN has warned that it will seek legal action to protect the educational rights of students.
“We expect these governments to act in good faith by promptly engaging all parties involved in constructive dialogue,” Okoh stressed. “The education of our children and the unity of our states are at stake. Should these rights face further jeopardy or dialogue fail to deliver justice, CAN is prepared to seek legal recourse.”
Despite the strong criticism, CAN concluded its statement with a call for calm among the residents of the affected states. The association urged the public to work together to ensure that no child’s education is compromised, emphasizing the importance of unity in a multi-faith society.
“Let us unite as Nigerians to forge a society where faith and progress harmonize, where no child’s education is compromised, and where every community is valued,”
