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Ramadan 2025 is taking a different turn in northern Nigeria as several governors have announced a month-long closure of schools to allow students and teachers to fully observe the holy month.Â
This decision, affecting both public and private institutions, has sparked discussions about its impact on education and religious practices.
The move, led by governors from Kebbi, Katsina, and Bauchi states, is being justified as a way to enable Muslims to focus on fasting, prayers, and other religious obligations without the distractions of academic activities. However, while many support the decision, others have raised concerns about the academic calendar and inclusivity.
Kebbi State: Governor Nasir Idris Adjusts Academic CalendarIn Kebbi State, Governor Nasir Idris, a former teacher himself, structured the 2024/2025 academic session to accommodate Ramadan. The second term will officially end on February 28, with students proceeding on a break from March 1 until April 7. According to his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, this adjustment is meant to give Muslim students and teachers ample time to participate in fasting and religious activities.
Katsina State: Governor Radda Enforces State-Wide School ClosureSimilarly, Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has ordered all schools in the state to shut down for the duration of Ramadan. Hisbah, the Islamic law enforcement agency, has also issued a strict directive to private schools, warning them against operating during the fasting period. The order, however, makes an exception for extra lessons.
Bauchi State: Governor Bala Mohammed Faces Criticism Over School ClosureIn Bauchi State, Governor Bala Mohammed has announced a five-week closure of all nursery, primary, and secondary schools starting from February 26. Schools are set to resume on April 5, after the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. Unlike in Kebbi and Katsina, this decision has faced pushback, especially from private school owners and Christian institutions. Critics argue that shutting down schools for an extended period may disrupt learning and affect students who do not observe Ramadan.
Mixed Reactions to the DecisionWhile many Muslim families appreciate the initiative, there are growing concerns about how the prolonged break might affect students academically. Some private school operators worry that the decision does not consider non-Muslim students, who are now forced to take an extended holiday.
The debate over balancing religious observance with academic obligations continues, but for now, students in these states are preparing for a long Ramadan break.
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