ABUJA, NIGERIA — Following the recent decision by the Federal Government (FG) to reopen 47 Unity Colleges across Nigeria, a prominent security analyst has issued a stern warning. Capt. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu (rtd) cautioned that the return of students must be backed by “concrete, long-term security measures” rather than mere official promises.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the reopening on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Specifically, the government noted that academic activities have resumed following the “strengthening of security architecture” around the affected institutions. These schools were initially shut down in November 2025 following mass abductions in Kebbi and Niger States.
The Risks of Reopening Unity Schools Prematurely
While Capt. Adamu (rtd) acknowledged that education is a critical national asset, he warned that “optimism must not override security realities.” Notably, he argued that the credible threats—such as kidnapping and banditry—that forced the initial closures have evolved rather than disappeared.
“Security is not measured by announcements but by preparedness, deterrence, and response efficiency,” Adamu stated. “If the reopening is based merely on assurances rather than verifiable security benchmarks, it risks repeating past tragedies and eroding public confidence.”
According to the analyst, the government must address these core areas:
- Permanent Deployment: Shifting from temporary patrols to 24/7 security presence within school premises.
- Rapid Response: Ensuring security forces can respond within minutes, not hours, to any distress calls.
- Integrated Intelligence: Closing the gaps between the military, police, DSS, and local vigilante structures.
- Infrastructure Beef-up: Installing perimeter surveillance, controlled access points, and emergency communication systems.
Government Assures Parents of Student Safety
In response, the Ministry of Education has sought to calm the fears of parents and guardians. A statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, reaffirmed that student welfare remains a top priority. Indeed, many students have already returned to campuses to conclude their December academic programs and terminal examinations.
Furthermore, the ministry emphasized that the administration remains resolute in protecting the fundamental right of every Nigerian child to a safe education. Consequently, the government is working closely with relevant security agencies to sustain normalcy across all school environments nationwide.
Community Involvement: The Missing Link in School Security
Capt. Adamu (rtd) also highlighted the importance of “community-led intelligence.” Specifically, he noted that host communities must become active partners in early warning systems. Ultimately, he believes that without community engagement, formal security efforts will continue to fall short in protecting vulnerable boarding schools. FG Reopen 47 Unity Colleges
