The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has declared that schools in Borno State will remain open despite the prevailing security challenges, insisting that shutting down educational institutions would amount to surrendering to the objectives of terrorists.
The National Publicity Secretary of the union, Comrade Yusuf Tom, made the position known during an interaction with journalists in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Speaking on behalf of the State Chairman of the union, Comrade Zali Garba, Tom stated that the NUT had not issued any directive for the closure of schools in the state and remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to education.
According to him, teachers across the state have continued to demonstrate resilience and dedication in the face of insecurity, maintaining their commitment to teaching and learning despite ongoing threats.
Tom emphasized that the primary objective of insurgents is to instill fear, disrupt education, and force the closure of schools. He noted that yielding to such pressure would only encourage further attacks and undermine efforts to sustain education in affected communities.
He said the union would continue to encourage teachers to remain at their duty posts and support the continuity of academic activities across the state.
“We did not order the closure of schools in Borno State. If you close schools, it is a victory for fear,” Tom stated.
“Therefore, we will continue to encourage our teachers to teach in our respective schools, for us to continue to defeat their game of seeing schools closed. That is what we are agitating for; we are not agitating for the closure of schools.”
The union reiterated its belief that education remains a critical tool in combating extremism and rebuilding communities affected by insurgency.
NUT also called on government authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting schools, teachers, and students, while ensuring that learning environments remain safe and conducive across the state.
Education stakeholders have consistently stressed the importance of safeguarding access to education in conflict-affected areas, describing schools as symbols of hope, resilience, and long-term development.
The union maintained that despite the challenges, teachers in Borno State remain determined to continue their duties and contribute to the educational advancement of future generations.
