The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has declared that schools in Borno State will remain open despite ongoing security threats, insisting that shutting down classrooms would hand terrorists the victory they seek.
Speaking in Maiduguri, the union said it remains committed to ensuring that learning continues, even as concerns grow over attacks and kidnappings targeting schools in parts of the country.
NUT National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Yusuf Tom, explained that closing schools because of insecurity would only strengthen the objectives of insurgents who aim to disrupt education and create fear among communities.
According to him, the union is not advocating for school closures but rather calling for stronger security measures that will allow teachers and students to carry on with academic activities safely.
Tom stressed that education is a fundamental human right and that denying children access to learning because of threats from criminal groups would have long-term consequences for society.
The union also used the opportunity to renew calls for the unconditional release of abducted students and teachers, including victims from schools affected by recent attacks.
He urged the government to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen security around educational institutions, noting that both learners and teachers deserve protection.
The comments come as teachers across Nigeria participate in nationwide solidarity rallies aimed at drawing attention to the growing insecurity facing schools and education workers.
The demonstrations were organised by the NUT following a surge in kidnappings and attacks on schools in different parts of the country, including the recent abductions that have sparked national outrage.
According to the union, the rallies are intended to push authorities to take urgent action to secure schools, protect educators, and ensure the safe return of all kidnapped victims.
Despite the challenges, the NUT insists that education must continue and that fear should not be allowed to determine the future of Nigerian children.
Source: The PUNCH / Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT)
