CAN condemns the school closures in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states during Ramadan. The association calls for dialogue to protect students' educational rights and avoid exacerbating the out-of-school children crisis. CAN urges state governments to adapt school schedules, following the example of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong opposition to the decision made by Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states to close schools during the Ramadan fasting period. In a statement released on Sunday, CAN President Daniel Okoh described the measure as a violation of students' rights and a disruption to their education, highlighting the detrimental effects of a prolonged break, which could last up to five weeks. He emphasized that these closures will exacerbate the already high rates of out-of-school children in these regions, which currently surpass the national average of 44%.
Drawing comparisons to Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Okoh pointed out that while these nations observe Ramadan, they do not close schools entirely. Instead, they adapt schedules to accommodate fasting hours while ensuring that educational activities continue. He called on the state governments to engage in transparent and inclusive dialogue with religious leaders, parents, school proprietors, and civil society organizations to find a balanced solution that respects religious observance without compromising students' education.
The CAN president further warned that if no constructive dialogue takes place to resolve the issue, the association may resort to legal action to challenge the school closures. He also raised concerns about the potential marginalization of students from diverse religious backgrounds and the threat this poses to the unity of Nigeria's pluralistic society. Okoh urged the governors of the affected states to reconsider the decision and engage with key stakeholders to avoid further educational setbacks.
