The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has backed the closure of primary and secondary schools by some northern state governments during Ramadan, emphasizing that the move prioritizes student welfare amid intense heat.
The council encouraged states like Zamfara, Sokoto, and Jigawa to follow suit, arguing that the temporary measure is in students’ best interests.
In a statement signed by Secretary-General Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, SCSN dismissed criticism from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and certain NGOs, asserting that state governments have the constitutional authority to set school calendars.
“This decision ensures continuous learning while preventing students from remaining idle for extended periods. It was carefully reviewed by the respective Ministries of Education and widely welcomed by parents,” the statement read.
The council rejected threats of legal or industrial action over the closures, labeling them unnecessary and disrespectful to state authorities.
“It is baffling that CAN, which remained silent when prolonged ASUU strikes disrupted entire academic sessions, is now opposing a temporary, structured adjustment of just 25 school days,” the council added.
Citing the Education Law of January 1, 1964, SCSN reiterated that governors have the legal right to determine school holidays, except in Kogi State, where the law does not apply.
The council further argued that CAN is not a direct stakeholder in northern education policies and that state governments are not required to seek external approval for such decisions.
Commending state leaders for prioritizing student well-being, SCSN called on other northern states to consider similar adjustments and urged stakeholders to respect government authority in educational matters.