By Charles Igwe
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has expressed deep concern over the decision by some governors in northern Nigeria to shut down schools for five weeks during the Ramadan period. In a statement issued on Monday, March 3, 2025, the bishops emphasized that the move affects not only Muslim students but also Christian students and Christian-owned schools, raising critical questions about the secular nature of Nigeria and the rights of all citizens.
Signed by CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, and Secretary, Bishop Donatus Ogun, the statement referenced Section 10 of the Nigerian Constitution, which prohibits the government from adopting any religion as a state religion. The bishops stressed that Nigeria’s secular status is a fundamental principle that must guide national policies and decisions.
The CBCN also cited international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, which recognize education as a fundamental right. The bishops warned that closing schools for such an extended period undermines this right and could negatively impact the education and future of millions of Nigerian children.
Raising concerns about the already alarming rate of out-of-school children in northern Nigeria, the bishops pointed to UNESCO statistics showing that Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world, with over 10 million currently out of school. They cautioned that the recent decision would only worsen the crisis and hinder efforts to improve education outcomes in the region.
The CBCN called on affected governors to reconsider the decision and adopt alternative arrangements that respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens. They also urged the Federal Government to intervene to ensure that the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of faith or background, are protected.
