The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the decision by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to shut down schools for five weeks during Ramadan. Calling the move discriminatory and unfair to non-Muslim students, CAN has demanded an immediate reversal and warned that it will take legal action if the directive stands.
“This Disrupts Education,” Says CAN
This was contained in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the Faith based organisation President, Daniel Okoh criticized the policy, arguing that it will worsen the already dire education crisis in northern Nigeria. Noting that the affected states already account for 44% of the country’s out-of-school children.
“Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress,” Okoh said. “Closing schools for such a long period disrupts academic schedules and negatively impacts the future of millions of students.”
Lack of Consultation Raises Concerns
CAN also took issue with how the decision was made, stating that key stakeholders Christian leaders, educators, and parents, were not consulted.
“Policies impacting diverse populations—Muslims, Christians, and others—demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors.”
The absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in our pluralistic society,” Okoh noted.
Lessons from Muslim Countries
The CAN President, however, pointed to predominantly Islamic nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which, despite deeply respecting Ramadan, do not shut down schools for an entire month.
“Instead, they adjust school hours to balance education with religious observance. A five-week closure, as seen in Bauchi, is excessive and unnecessary,” he said.
CAN Demands Action or Legal Response
While stressing the Faith-based body’s to interfaith harmony, CAN insisted that the closure of schools on religious grounds is unacceptable. It also urged the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi to rethink the decision and engage with relevant stakeholders.
“The education of our children is at stake. If this policy is not reversed and dialogue fails, CAN will seek legal action to ensure justice,” Okoh warned.
Call for Calm and Cooperation
However, CAN urged Nigerians to remain calm while efforts are made to resolve the issue.
“We must work together to create a society where faith and education go hand in hand, where no child is deprived of learning, and where every community is valued,” the statement concluded.
