The Federal Government has cautioned against the continued closure of schools due to insecurity, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s education system and long-term stability.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja at the first triennial meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC).

Akume said shutting down schools in unsafe areas not only disrupts learning but also deepens the country’s education crisis, stressing the need for safer learning environments.

“A child cannot learn fraternity in fear; a nation cannot preach literacy while schools are under threat,” he said.

According to a statement by his media aide, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF called for the strengthening of safe school policies and violence-free learning spaces to ensure uninterrupted education.

He noted that persistent attacks on schools and prolonged closures continue to undermine efforts to improve access to quality education across the country.

Akume also emphasised the need to improve teaching quality, calling for better-trained educators, enhanced learning materials, and value-based education that promotes tolerance and responsible citizenship.

Beyond education, the SGF urged religious and traditional leaders to play a more active role in promoting peace and national unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Religious and traditional leaders have a moral responsibility to strengthen collaboration, promote tolerance and ensure peaceful coexistence in their communities,” he said.

He warned against the manipulation of religion and identity for political or economic gains, noting that such actions often fuel violence and social unrest.

Akume further stressed the importance of combining religious literacy with media and information literacy to curb misinformation and hate speech, referencing Nigeria’s collaboration with UNESCO on responsible information sharing.

He expressed optimism that deliberations at the meeting would produce practical solutions to strengthen national cohesion, urging stakeholders to prioritise education as a key tool for peace-building and development.