The Niger State Government has approved the reopening of 2,451 public and private primary and secondary schools for the second phase of academic resumption, starting Monday, January 26, 2026. This follows the partial reopening of schools two weeks ago after their closure in November due to the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The decision was made after a full security assessment by relevant agencies and was announced in a statement from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Schools in 24 of the state’s 25 Local Government Areas are included, while those in Paikoro remain closed pending further security checks. A list of cleared schools in Paikoro will be released later.
The approval applies only to schools listed in the "Phase Two" schedule, as stated in a circular signed by the Director of Schools and Educational Services, Hassan Mohammed, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary.
The breakdown of approved schools includes 478 in Chanchaga, 363 in Suleja, 226 in Bida, 215 in Bosso, 172 in Kontagora, 124 in Borgu, 101 in Mokwa, 87 in Lapai, 84 in Lavun, 77 in Shiroro, 71 in Agaie, 71 in Gurara, 56 in Katcha, 52 in Tafa, 49 in Gbako, 45 in Rafi, 37 in Munya, 31 in Mashegu, 24 in Wushishi, 23 in Edati, 19 in Agwara, 19 in Magama, 14 in Mariga, and 13 in Rijau.
Parents and guardians are advised to confirm their children’s schools are on the approved list. The Ministry emphasized that safety is the priority, with security agencies ensuring a secure learning environment as schools reopen.