The Federal Ministry of Education has debunked reports claiming that schools across the country have been ordered to shut down following recent abductions of pupils in parts of northern Nigeria.
In a statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the ministry described the circulating message—alleging that all schools would close from 24th November 2025—as false, misleading, and not authorised by the Federal Government, any State Ministry of Education or recognised security agency.
According to the ministry, the viral circular currently making the rounds on social media is the handiwork of fake news peddlers and should be disregarded.
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“The public is strongly advised to rely strictly on verified information issued through official channels such as the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, State Governments, State Ministries of Education or recognised security agencies,” the statement read.
It further warned Nigerians against sharing unverified notices, stressing that misinformation can heighten public fear and disrupt academic activities unnecessarily.
“Any announcement, advisory, or notice coming from unofficial or unverified sources should be ignored and not shared. Members of the public are urged to always verify the authenticity of information before circulating it in order to curb the spread of misinformation.”
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The ministry reaffirmed that no directive has been issued for a nationwide school shutdown.
The government had recently ordered the closure of 47 government-owned schools located in the northern region due to rising insecurity and repeated abductions of students, especially in Niger and Kebbi States. However, the ministry clarified that the approved closures were limited and specific, not nationwide.
As security agencies intensify efforts to secure learning environments, the Federal Government says official updates will continue to be communicated through trusted and authorised platforms.