NUT Announces Shutting Down Schools Amid Rising Insecurity

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has announced that it will not entertain the closure of schools in Borno State, despite increasing security challenges in the region.

The union emphasizes that shutting down educational institutions would only benefit terrorists who have persistently targeted schools and learning facilities.

During a recent statement in Maiduguri, Comrade Yusuf Tom, the National Publicity Secretary of the NUT, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to maintaining the continuity of education throughout the state.

He underscored that teachers will not be deterred by threats from criminal organizations, highlighting their determination to remain in the classrooms and uphold the integrity of teaching and learning.

Tom, who spoke on behalf of the Borno State Chairman of the union, Comrade Zali Garba, dismissed reports suggesting that the NUT was advocating for the closure of schools.

According to him, the union’s position is clear: education must continue despite the challenges posed by insecurity.

“We did not order the closure of schools in Borno State. If you close school, it is a victory for fear.

“Therefore, we will continue to encourage our teachers to teach in our respective schools, for us to continue to defeat their (terrorists’) game of seeing schools closed. That is what we are agitating for, we are not agitating for the closure of schools,” he said.

The union spokesman explained that rather than shutting down schools, the focus should be on improving security around educational institutions and ensuring that students and teachers can carry out their activities without fear.

He noted that the ongoing concerns over school abductions and attacks on educational facilities were responsible for the nationwide action being organised by the union.

Tom said the planned protest was intended to draw attention to the plight of students and teachers who have become victims of insecurity in different parts of the country.

“Education is part of human rights. But in recent times, the reverse is the case, and this is why we are organising this rally to make our voice heard so that our learners in Askira Uba of Mussa Primary and Secondary School will be released unconditionally.

“These children deserve human rights; they deserve protection. We want the government to intensify efforts in rescuing these children, teachers and colleagues in Borno and other states. The protest will take place nationwide and we are in solidarity with that,” he added.