Nigerians have condemned the shutting of over 11.5 million schoolchildren in not less than four states in the northern region for Ramadan, describing the act of the state governments as outrageous.

The governments of Katsina, Kebbi, Bauchi, and Kano States have directed all public and private schools to proceed on holiday for the whole month of Ramadan when Muslims observe strict fasting.

The four-state government explained that the holiday allows school children, teachers, and other stakeholders to observe the holy month, which begins on Saturday, March 1, 2025.


According to Ahmed Idris, the chief press secretary to Kebbi State’s governor the state government approved the break to allow the Muslim communities in the state’s educational institutions to fully engage in fasting, prayers, and other religious activities associated with Ramadan.

“The government urges all educational establishments to adhere to this schedule and wishes the Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.”