The Katsina State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all public schools across the state following escalating security threats and banditry attacks reported in several communities.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Yusuf Jibia, confirmed the directive on Friday while briefing journalists in Katsina.

As reported by The Nation, Jibia said the measure became necessary to safeguard students and teachers as security agencies implement a new statewide school-safety strategy.

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He noted that although students are currently writing examinations, protecting lives and property remains the top priority.

The commissioner described the shutdown as a temporary step that will remain in place pending a comprehensive security review of identified high-risk areas.

“The state government assures citizens that normal academic activities will resume soon after security assessments are completed and adequate protection measures are put in place,” Jibia added.

The decision follows recent abductions of secondary-school students in Kebbi and Niger states, a development that has heightened anxiety among parents and authorities across the North-West.