The Borno State Government has commenced consultations with security agencies, traditional rulers, local authorities and community leaders as part of plans to safely reopen schools affected by insecurity in Askira-Uba and Chibok Local Government Areas.
The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, led a delegation to the two local government areas for extensive consultations with stakeholders on the proposed reopening of schools in seven affected communities.
Key Highlights
- Borno Government begins consultations on reopening schools in Askira-Uba and Chibok.
- Seven communities are affected, with four in Askira-Uba and three in Chibok.
- Schools were shut following security incidents in Mussa, Kautikari and Lassa.
- Security agencies have pledged support for the safe reopening of the schools.
- Traditional rulers and community leaders have promised to support the initiative.
- Education officials have been directed to prepare schools for resumption once security arrangements are confirmed.
The affected schools were closed following security incidents, including attacks on Mussa on May 15, Kautikari on June 13 and Lassa on June 29, 2026.
The consultations were aimed at assessing the prevailing security situation, strengthening cooperation among security agencies and communities, and ensuring that adequate measures are in place before academic activities resume.
Military Pledges Support
Wakilbe first met with the Acting Brigade Commander of the 28 Task Force Brigade, Chibok, Col. S.M. Sunusi, and the Acting Commanding Officer of the 115 Task Force Battalion, Askira-Uba, Major U. Abbas.
He sought the military’s support in providing adequate protection for the affected schools and surrounding communities, stressing that the safety of pupils, students and teachers remained a priority.
The two commanders assured the commissioner of the military’s commitment to supporting the reopening exercise and implementing appropriate security measures to create a safe environment for teaching and learning.
Traditional Rulers Back the Initiative
The delegation also visited the Emir of Uba, Alhaji Ali Samaila Mamza, and the Emir of Askira, Alhaji (Dr.) Mai Abdullahi Ibn Muhammadu Askirama.
The traditional rulers welcomed the initiative and assured the government of the support and cooperation of traditional institutions and local communities towards the safe reopening of the schools.
Wakilbe emphasised the role of traditional rulers in mobilising communities, encouraging school attendance and supporting the implementation of Safe School protocols.
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Local Government and Communities Engaged
The commissioner also met with the Askira-Uba Local Government Council, led by its chairman, Hon. Mada Saidu, alongside the vice chairman, Hon. Bilyaminu Umar Ngulde, and members of the Legislative Council.
He urged the council to strengthen its ownership of basic education and increase its support for the Safe School Initiative, particularly in communities where insecurity has disrupted educational activities.
The council chairman thanked the commissioner for the visit and reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to working with the state government to keep schools open and improve the safety of learners and teachers.
Wakilbe and his team subsequently held meetings with community leaders and other stakeholders in Lassa, Dille and Chul. Discussions focused on the proposed reopening of schools and the implementation of Safe School protocols.
Stakeholders discussed community participation in school security, mobilisation of parents and learners, early reporting of security threats, and sustained cooperation among communities, education authorities and security agencies.
The commissioner urged residents to take active responsibility for protecting schools and creating a secure environment that would encourage pupils and students to return to their classrooms.
Schools Directed to Prepare for Resumption
The exercise also involved education stakeholders, including education secretaries, head teachers and principals from the affected areas.
Wakilbe reviewed the readiness of the schools and directed administrators and teachers to ensure effective resumption of academic activities once the required security arrangements are confirmed.
He further urged education stakeholders to maintain regular communication with the ministry, local government authorities, traditional institutions, communities and security agencies while strictly adhering to established Safe School protocols.
The meetings also provided an opportunity for school administrators to highlight operational challenges and discuss practical measures to facilitate the safe and effective reopening of the affected schools.
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