The Plateau State Government has directed all basic schools across the state to close immediately, citing rising security tensions and the need to act before threats escalate.
The announcement—confirmed on Friday by Richard Jonah, spokesperson for the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB)—follows a wave of violent attacks on educational institutions in neighbouring states. Jonah told PUNCH Online that the government was not willing to wait for such incidents to reach Plateau before taking action.
“We have seen what is happening in some states where schools have been attacked,” he explained. “The government is taking a preventive step to ensure such tragedies are not repeated here. The closure is temporary and will allow authorities to strengthen security arrangements before students return.”
A circular from PSUBEB outlined the staggered shutdown schedule:
* Government Junior Model Secondary Schools — to close Saturday, November 22, 2025
* Primary and Day Schools — to close Monday, November 24, 2025
The board emphasized that the decision was a “swift, precautionary move” aimed at averting potential threats, urging parents, school administrators, community leaders, and local education authorities to comply fully and maintain heightened alertness.
In Shendam Local Government Area, the directive caused an abrupt dismissal of students. A resident, Moses Jeremiah, reported that pupils of GSS Shendam were hurriedly sent home after an alleged threat letter was circulated.
“One of my children just returned from school. They were dismissed because Boko Haram supposedly sent a message saying they would attack on Sunday,” he said.
However, the Plateau State Police Command said it had no record of such threats. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, noted that he had not been briefed on the closure.
“You’re only bringing this to my attention now,” he said. “I cannot comment until I receive an official report on the matter.”
The state’s decision comes amid a troubling week for schools in the North-Central region. Earlier, gunmen abducted 25 students from a girls’ secondary school in Kebbi State, killing the vice-principal during the attack. Within a day, another armed group raided a Catholic school in Niger State, kidnapping both pupils and staff.
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With tensions rising and parents growing increasingly anxious, the Plateau State Government insists the closures are temporary and essential for safeguarding children while stronger security measures are put in place.
