The Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology, Aliero, in Kebbi State, has been closed indefinitely following rising security concerns, with management directing all students and staff to vacate the campus immediately.
The directive, issued through an internal memo from the Office of the Registrar and Secretary to Council, came without prior warning. According to the notice signed by Registrar Maimaro Tilli, the closure applies to all categories of learners — from postgraduate and undergraduate students to diploma, remedial and IJMB candidates.
Students were instructed to leave within one hour of the announcement, while the university’s Security Division was authorised to evacuate anyone found lingering in hostels or restricted areas. Those living off campus — particularly in nearby communities such as Gidan Rami — were also warned to relocate temporarily to avoid potential confrontations with security operatives.
No Official Explanation — But Strong Suspicions
Although the university did not state the reason for the abrupt shutdown, sources within the institution said the action is likely linked to growing insecurity affecting schools across northern Nigeria, especially in the wake of recent mass abductions.
The latest occurred on Monday when armed bandits stormed Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, also in Kebbi State, kidnapping around 24 students. The school’s vice principal was reportedly shot dead while attempting to protect the girls.
The attack sparked widespread outrage, prompting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order an immediate rescue operation. Vice President Kashim Shettima travelled to Kebbi on the president’s behalf, assuring residents that securing the victims’ release remained a top national priority.
As part of the federal response, Tinubu also directed the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi State to oversee rescue efforts on the ground.
Wider Pattern of Attacks on Schools
The Kebbi abduction came just days after another major kidnapping incident in Niger State, where more than 300 students were seized by gunmen, underscoring a troubling resurgence of school-targeted attacks across the region.
Education authorities in several northern states have been on heightened alert as security agencies race to contain the crisis. Monday’s attack appears to have intensified concerns, leading institutions such as Abdullahi Fodio University to take precautionary measures.
Uncertainty for Students and Staff
With no timeline provided for reopening, students expressed confusion and anxiety over the abrupt manner of the closure. University officials have advised the public to await further communication as the security situation evolves.
The shutdown adds to growing fears about the safety of educational institutions in Nigeria’s northwest and north-central regions, where banditry and mass abductions have continued to threaten learning environments.
Authorities say rescue operations for the abducted students are ongoing.
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