The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized the decision by Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States to close all schools for up to five weeks during Ramadan, calling it a violation of students’ rights and a dangerous precedent for governance.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed concern over the directive, warning that it would disrupt education and worsen the already high number of out-of-school children in the affected states.
“In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where Islam is central and Ramadan is deeply revered, schools remain open,” CAN stated, questioning the justification for such prolonged closures in Nigeria.
Okoh emphasized that education is a fundamental right, and extended school closures could significantly impact students’ academic progress.
He further criticized the lack of broad consultation before implementing the decision, arguing that policies affecting diverse populations should involve transparent and inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, and religious leaders.
The association called on the state governments to reconsider the directive and adopt alternative measures that respect religious observances without compromising education. CAN also urged the Federal Government to intervene and ensure that educational policies are fair, inclusive, and beneficial to all students, regardless of religious background.
