The Edo State Government has directed the reopening of schools that were temporarily shut due to security concerns, with academic activities scheduled to resume on Monday, June 15, 2026.
The announcement was made in an official circular issued on Friday, June 12, 2026, by the Edo State Ministry of Education in Benin City, the state capital. The statement was signed by Mrs. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education.
According to the government, the decision to reopen the affected schools followed a comprehensive review of the security situation in collaboration with security agencies and key stakeholders. Authorities stated that the review showed significant improvement in safety conditions in the affected communities.
Mrs. Otamere said the government approved the reopening after the implementation of enhanced security measures and the deployment of additional safety mechanisms around schools and nearby communities to protect students, teachers, and other personnel.
She stated that the government is satisfied that adequate arrangements have now been put in place to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of learners and school staff. She also directed school administrators, proprietors, and relevant education authorities to make all necessary preparations for the safe return of students and workers.
The schools affected by the earlier closure are located in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of northern Edo State. They include Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
These schools were initially shut down on June 10, 2026, after intelligence reports from security agencies warned of a credible kidnapping threat targeting schoolchildren in parts of Edo North Senatorial District. The temporary closure was described as a preventive measure aimed at protecting lives and property while security operatives worked to neutralize the threat.
Despite the closure, students sitting for the ongoing West African Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) were allowed to continue writing their examinations under special security arrangements involving security personnel and community stakeholders.
The government reassured parents and guardians that security around the affected schools has been strengthened and urged them to ensure their children return to school promptly so academic activities can continue without further disruption.
The reopening comes amid growing national concerns over attacks on schools and rising kidnapping incidents in several parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural communities. School safety has become a major concern for state governments and security agencies following repeated threats against educational institutions.
Edo State authorities said they will continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain coordination with security agencies, community leaders, and local officials to sustain a safe learning environment.
The state government emphasized that protecting lives and safeguarding the education sector remain top priorities, adding that any future threat will be addressed swiftly to prevent harm to students and staff.
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