The Yobe government has ordered the immediate closure of all boarding secondary schools in the state following rising security concerns and recent breaches reported in parts of the country.
The directive was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by Mamman Mohammed, media aide to Governor Mai Mala Buni.
He said the decision followed a security meeting held by the governor with heads of security agencies in the state.
According to him, the step became necessary after reviewing incidents of attacks on schools in some states.
He added that the government considered it important to act early to protect students.
Mr Mohammed quoted the governor as saying that residents should continue to pray for leaders, security operatives, peace and improved safety across the state and the country.
Bukar Aji Bukar, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, explained that the shutdown is temporary. He said the schools will reopen once the security atmosphere improves.
He also said principals of all affected schools have been directed to comply fully with the order.
