The Federal Government has announced the reopening of all 47 Federal Unity Colleges that were earlier shut down due to worsening security challenges across the country.
The schools were closed in November 2025 following a surge in mass abductions of schoolchildren and violent attacks in parts of the North West, North East, North Central, and some southern states.
The reopening was confirmed on Thursday, December 18, in a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade.
According to the ministry, the decision followed extensive consultations and sustained engagement with security agencies nationwide, aimed at ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and school infrastructure.
The ministry reassured parents, guardians, and the general public that the safety and welfare of students remain the Federal Government’s highest priority, stressing that proactive security measures have been strengthened around Unity Colleges.
Many students, the statement noted, are currently concluding their December academic programmes, while others have already completed their examinations.
The government said the reopening reflects its determination to prevent prolonged disruption to learning despite ongoing security concerns.
“The Federal Government has reaffirmed its responsibility to protect every Nigerian child and to uphold their constitutional right to education in a secure setting,” the statement said.
It added that the move underscores the administration’s resolve to ensure access to education is not denied due to insecurity.
“The decision to reopen the Unity Colleges reflects the administration’s determination to ensure that no child is denied access to education due to security concerns.”
The ministry further emphasised the strategic importance of education to national development.
“Education remains a central pillar of this administration’s human capital development agenda and a key driver of national growth. Accordingly, the government remains committed to safeguarding the academic calendar,” the statement said.
Highlighting recent developments, the ministry noted that the return of students and the successful conduct of examinations in several Unity Colleges demonstrate the government’s commitment to continuity in education.
“The successful return of students and the smooth conduct of examinations in several Unity Colleges underscore this commitment.”
The ministry also expressed appreciation to parents, school administrators, and students for their patience and cooperation during the period of closure, while reiterating its resolve to sustain a secure and uninterrupted education system nationwide.
It added that the reopening of the Unity Colleges further reinforces the government’s commitment to educational continuity, alongside strengthened measures to protect students and staff across the country.
