Kwara Orders Reopening of Schools as Security Forces Intensify Crackdown on Bandits

The Kwara State Government has directed the immediate reopening of schools across the state from Monday, February 2, 2026, following what it described as significant improvements in the security situation due to sustained operations against criminal elements.

The directive was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, who said school authorities have been duly informed of the development.

According to the commissioner, the decision was taken after a comprehensive review of ongoing security interventions and intelligence reports indicating that threats to public safety — including schools — have been substantially reduced.

“The government deems the situation now to be a lot better than it was before. Even so, we continue to maintain vigilance,” the statement read.

He noted that security agencies are continuing coordinated operations across affected areas to neutralise bandits and other criminal groups, while also working with local communities to strengthen grassroots vigilance and resilience.

Olohungbebe assured parents and guardians that the government remains committed to the safety of students, teachers, and school personnel, stressing that protective measures have been reinforced to sustain the gains recorded in recent weeks.

The statement added that beyond kinetic security efforts, the state is also deepening community-based support systems to ensure early threat detection and rapid response.

The announcement comes after temporary disruptions to academic activities in some areas due to security concerns, with authorities expressing confidence that normal school operations can now safely resume.