The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong opposition to the recent directives by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi States to close all public and private schools for up to five weeks to observe the Ramadan fast. In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described the decision as a significant threat to educational continuity, equity, and national unity.
Archbishop Okoh emphasized that education is a fundamental right and the foundation of societal progress. He warned that prolonged school closures would disrupt academic schedules and exacerbate the already critical issue of out-of-school children in the affected states. Notably, Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi already face alarming rates of out-of-school children, averaging 44%, which is significantly higher than the national average.
CAN also criticized the lack of broad consultation before issuing the directive, noting that its leadership in the affected states was not adequately engaged. The association stressed that policies affecting diverse populations must result from inclusive dialogue, and unilateral decisions erode trust and unity in Nigeria's pluralistic society.
Drawing comparisons with Islamic-majority nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, CAN observed that these countries do not shut down schools for the entire fasting period but instead implement adjusted schedules or flexible learning arrangements. The association argued that if Islamic heartlands can maintain a balance between education and religious observance, Nigeria's northern states should follow suit, labeling the five-week closure as excessive and lacking global precedent.
CAN has urged the governors of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi to open channels of dialogue with religious bodies, school owners, parents, and civil society to reassess the directives. The association warned that it is prepared to seek legal recourse if the closures persist, aiming to protect the constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.
While calling for peace among Christians, Muslims, and all residents of the affected states, CAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting harmony across faiths but insisted that the rights of students and families who do not observe Ramadan must be respected. The association urged the governors to reconsider these policies in the spirit of fairness and national cohesion.