Kwara reopens schools, excludes areas under security watch

The Kwara State Government has directed the reopening of schools across the state from Monday, January 5, 2026, while maintaining restrictions in areas under special security surveillance.

The directive was issued by the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, which said the decision was guided by public safety considerations amid ongoing security operations in parts of the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, said learning activities would resume immediately in all schools except those located in areas earlier identified for special security measures.

He explained that the phased resumption was designed to protect pupils and students while ensuring that academic activities continue across the state.

According to Olohungbebe, schools in areas affected by security operations would reopen once it is confirmed safe to do so. He assured parents and guardians that the government remains committed to safeguarding learners and education workers.

“In collaboration with the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the Ministry welcomes students, teachers, and parents back to school and wishes them a successful academic session,” the statement said.

To further support learning, the ministry announced the introduction of a radio-based learning programme to complement classroom teaching. The initiative is aimed at expanding access to education, especially for learners in areas where physical school attendance may be disrupted.

The programme, supported by UNICEF and the Nigeria Learning Passport, will commence on Monday, January 5, 2026. It will be broadcast on Midland FM 99.1.

According to the ministry, lessons will air at 11:00 a.m. on Mondays, 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 2:30 p.m. on Fridays. Plans are also underway to include more radio stations to ensure wider coverage across the state.

The ministry said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to inclusive and uninterrupted learning.