Niger shuts two secondary schools over students, youth gang clash

The Niger State government has ordered the immediate closure of two public secondary schools in Minna, the state capital.

The Commissioner for Niger State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed, who announced the closure in Minna on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, noted that the decision was due to persistent fights involving students of the schools and youths within the community.

She said that the closure would remain in effect until further notice.

The affected schools include Government Day Secondary School, Bosso Road, Minna, and Father O’Connell Science College (GSS), Minna.

According to Dr. Hadiza, the decision followed an on-the-spot assessment conducted by the management of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

The Commissioner lamented the troubling activities involving students and youth gangs posing as students, which contribute to the rising insecurity within the schools and their surrounding communities.

Dr. Asabe Mohammed, however, advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive, as the state government is implementing decisive measures to curb the menace of youth restiveness within school environments.

She urged parents to cooperate with the government to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.