CAN faults closure of schools in Ramadan
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has urged Northern governors to balance education with spiritual practices, expressing concerns over the decision to close schools in some Northern states during the Ramadan fast.
In a statement, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of CAN for the 19 Northern states and the FCT, highlighted the association’s awareness of directives mandating the closure of public and private schools for five weeks in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states due to the observance of Ramadan.
He acknowledged the region’s religious diversity and CAN’s respect for the observance of fasting but called for a thoughtful review of the decision.
“CAN in the 19 Northern states and the FCT is deeply concerned about the closure of schools, especially considering the setbacks already faced by children in the region due to rising insecurity, which has severely disrupted education. The timing of this decision is flawed, and its impact could further hinder the educational progress of young people in Northern Nigeria,” he stated.
Rev. Hayab pointed out that the school closure could negatively affect students preparing for critical exams, such as those conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and Junior Secondary School examinations. Without access to structured learning, students may struggle to perform well, thereby reducing their chances of securing admission into tertiary institutions by October 2025.
Additionally, he expressed concerns about younger children, many of whom are under the age of 14 and may not yet be religiously obligated to observe the fast. He also referenced data from the National Bureau of Statistics’ Multidimensional Poverty Index, which indicates that Bauchi State has 54% of children lacking access to education, followed by Kebbi at 45%, Katsina at 38%, and Kano at 35%. The closure of schools, he argued, would only widen the existing educational gap in the region.
CAN also drew attention to global examples, noting that even in predominantly Muslim countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, schools remain open during Ramadan, ensuring that education and religious practices coexist. The association urged the affected states to take a similar approach, allowing students to continue their studies while observing their faith.
Moreover, Rev. Hayab criticized the lack of inclusive dialogue in making this decision, stating that it disregarded the perspectives of educators, parents, religious leaders, and school owners. He warned that if schools were to be closed for the Christian Lenten season as well, children could end up staying home for over two months, which would be detrimental to educational development in the region.
Given these concerns, CAN suggested an alternative approach, proposing a reduction in school hours—such as closing at noon instead of a full closure—so that students, teachers, and administrators observing the fast can have time for religious activities without disrupting education entirely.
Following consultations with Islamic scholars, CAN found that the decision to close schools was more of a political move rather than one rooted in Islamic teachings.
The association urged Northern governors to reconsider the decision, warning against actions that portray the region in a negative light and invite ridicule.
“As peace-loving people, CAN in the 19 Northern states and the FCT, in alignment with the statement released by the National President of CAN, calls on citizens to remain calm and law-abiding. We also urge stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to address this issue amicably for the collective good of our children’s education and the region’s future. May God bless the Northern states, the FCT, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.