The governments of Katsina, Kebbi, and Bauchi states have instructed all public and private schools to observe a one-month holiday throughout Ramadan, a period of strict fasting for Muslims.
Officials explained that the break, which begins on March 1, 2025, is intended to allow students, teachers, and other stakeholders to fully participate in the spiritual activities of the holy month.
According to the revised 2024/2025 academic calendar in Kebbi State, the second term will officially end on February 28, 2025, a day before Ramadan begins.
Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, confirmed the decision, stating that the government approved the holiday so that Muslim students and staff could focus on fasting, prayers, and other religious obligations.
“The government urges all educational establishments to adhere to this schedule and wishes the Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan,” Idris said, adding that schools are expected to resume for the third term on April 7, 2025.
Similarly, the Katsina State government has ordered all schools within the state to close for the duration of Ramadan. Dr. Aminu Usm, Commander General of the state’s Hisbah Board, issued a statement specifically addressing private schools, warning them to comply with the directive.
The statement reads: “In accordance with the Katsina State government’s directive, all private schools are required to close for the Ramadan period to allow pupils to fully observe the holy month. The directive includes extra lessons, please.”
In Bauchi State, the Ministry of Education announced that all schools, including private and faith-based institutions, must remain closed for the next 40 days in observance of Ramadan.
The announcement has sparked debate, with concerns raised about the impact of extended school closures on students’ academic progress.
The controversy has reignited discussions on the intersection of religion and governance, particularly in the education sector. Some have questioned whether similar accommodations would be made for non-Muslim religious observances.