Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) logo
By Akeem Atoybi
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced disapproval over the directives by the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi states ordering the closure of all public and private schools for up to five weeks to observe the Ramadan fast, effective from late February to early April 2025.
In a statement on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated that , “While we honour the religious diversity of our nation and recognise the significance of faith, these decisions raise serious issues of equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.”
Okoh, who noted education as a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress, condemned the closure of schools across these states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students.
He averred that the states that issued the directives already have alarming rates of out-of-school children, averaging 44 percent according to recent data, far exceeding the national average.
He said such protracted breaks has the potential to deepen the crisis, undermining efforts to ensure access to quality education for all.
The CAN president berated the apparent lack of broad consultation in Bauchi, Katsina, Kano and Kebbi prior to the directives, saying such action is troubling, noting that the CAN leadership in those states was not adequately engaged, despite claims of stakeholder involvement.
He said policies impacting diverse populations (Muslims, Christians, and others) demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors, stressing that the absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in a pluralistic society.
He said, “Globally, nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—where Islam is central and Ramadan is deeply revered—do not shut down schools for the entire fasting period. Instead, they adapt schedules, shortening hours or offering flexibility, to balance education with religious practice. If these Islamic heartlands can maintain this equilibrium, Nigeria’s northern states should strive for similar pragmatism. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchi’s case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent.”
Okoh urged the people of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi (Christians, Muslims, and all residents) to remain calm and peaceful “as we address this matter.”
He reiterated CAN’s dedication to promoting harmony across faiths and urged members and the public to avoid actions that could heighten tensions.
Okoh stated that the organization could not overlook the potential violation of the rights of students and families who do not observe Ramadan, nor the dangerous signal the directives send for equitable governance.
“We therefore request that Governors Bala Mohammed, Dikko Umar Radda, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Nasir Idris open channels of dialogue with key stakeholders—religious bodies, school owners, parents, and civil society—to reassess these directives and pursue inclusive solutions. Transparency is essential, and we expect these governments to act in good faith by promptly engaging all parties. The education of our children and the unity of our states are at stake.
“Should these rights face further jeopardy or dialogue fail to deliver justice, CAN is prepared to seek legal recourse. We will pursue restraining orders through the courts to safeguard the constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience. Our pursuit of peace does not diminish our commitment to justice,” he said.
He called for unity to forge a society where faith and progress harmonize, where no child’s education is compromised, and where every community is valued.
“We urge the governors to reconsider these policies in the spirit of fairness and national cohesion. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.
