The Edo State Government has approved the reopening of schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following a temporary shutdown triggered by security concerns in the region.
The affected schools were earlier closed after intelligence reports indicated a possible threat to educational institutions in the area.
The decision to reopen was announced in a circular issued in Benin by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, on Friday.
According to the circular, the move followed a comprehensive security assessment carried out by relevant security agencies and stakeholders. The government said it was satisfied that improved safety measures had been put in place to protect students, teachers, and school staff.
“Following the implementation of enhanced security measures and the deployment of additional safety mechanisms across the affected communities and schools, the government is satisfied that necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and other school personnel.
“All public and private schools affected by the earlier circular are to resume normal academic and administrative activities, with effect from Monday, June 15, 2026,” Mr Otamere added.
School authorities, proprietors, and education officials have been directed to ensure the smooth and safe return of students and staff. They were also advised to maintain close collaboration with security agencies and community leaders to sustain a secure learning environment.
The government reassured parents and guardians that adequate security arrangements have been deployed across the affected communities and encouraged them to allow their children return to school without delay.
The temporary closure had earlier affected Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School after security alerts raised concerns over a planned attack on schools in parts of Edo North Senatorial District.
Reports indicated that intelligence agencies had intercepted communications suggesting a possible abduction plot, leading to the precautionary suspension of academic activities. A suspect was also reportedly arrested during surveillance operations near Makeke Secondary School.
During the closure, candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination were allowed to write their papers under special security protection.
With the latest directive, normal academic activities are expected to resume across the affected schools as the government insists the security situation has improved significantly.
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