The Plateau State Government on Friday directed the immediate closure of all basic schools across the state following emerging intelligence reports suggesting possible terror-related threats.
In a statement signed by Richard Jonah, Public Relations Officer of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB), authorities ordered all Government Junior Model Secondary Schools (GJMSSs) to suspend academic activities from Saturday, November 22. Primary and day schools are to follow suit from Monday, November 24.
Though the government did not disclose any specific threat, the Board described the decision as a “proactive step” to shield pupils from potential harm.
“The wellbeing of our learners remains our top priority,” the statement read.
“This closure is temporary but necessary to ensure that every child under the basic education system is protected. We urge parents, guardians, and communities to remain calm as the government works closely with relevant agencies to strengthen safety measures.”
PSUBEB also instructed Local Government Education Authorities, school heads, and community leaders to comply fully with the directive and remain vigilant pending further instructions.
The announcement comes just hours after a wave of violent abductions in northern Nigeria. Dozens of students and teachers from St. Mary’s Papiri Private Catholic Secondary School in Agwara LGA of Niger State were kidnapped early Friday morning by armed terrorists. The raid occurred barely five days after a similar attack in Kebbi State where 25 students were abducted.
According to sources, the attackers engaged security personnel in a prolonged gun duel before whisking away the victims.
Plateau State has battled recurring insecurity for over a decade—from farmer-herder conflicts and banditry to communal clashes—often disrupting academic activities in the most vulnerable communities. The surge in school-targeted abductions across northern Nigeria has heightened fears and pushed state governments to adopt stricter preventive measures.
In recent years, Plateau authorities have expanded surveillance in schools, strengthened community policing networks, and deepened collaboration with security agencies. The new directive follows a regional pattern in which states like Kaduna, Niger, Katsina, and Zamfara temporarily shut schools when intelligence reports suggest elevated risks.
Friday’s closure, officials say, forms part of a broader security strategy aimed at reducing vulnerabilities in the education sector and reassuring the public.
Reactions have been mixed. While many parents welcomed the move as timely, others expressed concern over the potential for prolonged disruption to children’s learning.