The Federal Government has warned that the continued closure of schools due to insecurity poses a major threat to Nigeria’s education system and long-term national stability.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. George Akume, gave the warning on Wednesday during the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council held in Abuja. The meeting focused on the theme, “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion.”
Akume said attacks on schools and the shutdown of learning institutions in unsafe areas were worsening the country’s education crisis and denying children access to uninterrupted learning.
According to him, government policies aimed at ensuring safe schools and violence-free learning environments must be strengthened to protect students and restore confidence in the education sector.
He stressed that children cannot thrive academically in an atmosphere of fear, noting that insecurity continues to undermine efforts to build unity and national development through education.
The SGF also called for improved teaching quality through better training for educators, enhanced learning materials, and value-based education that promotes tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and responsible citizenship.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Akume urged religious and traditional leaders to play active roles in promoting peace, preventing violence, and discouraging the spread of misinformation and divisive narratives.
He warned against the exploitation of religion and ethnic identity for political or economic interests, saying such actions often fuel unrest and social instability.
Akume added that the Federal Government had introduced measures to support religious and traditional institutions in sustaining peace and security across the country.
He expressed confidence that discussions at the council meeting would produce practical solutions to strengthen national unity and encourage peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Post comments (0)