Tahir Mamman, Education Minister

All Vice Chancellors across the country have been directed to ensure safety and protection of both staff and students in their various institutions.

The Federal Ministry of Education gave the directive in anticipation of the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, 2024, over economic hardships.

In a circular issued on Monday and signed by the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dr. Chris Maiyaki, universities were directed to prioritize security measures.

This directive followed concerns that the protest could potentially escalate into violence, despite the acknowledged right of citizens to peacefully protest.

The circular, titled “Urgent Arrangements for the Security and Safety of University Staff, Students and Property During the Proposed Nationwide Protests,” was issued under the directive of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman.

“The Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protests.

The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerian to peaceful protest but is concerned about the safety of staff, students, and university property should there be any protest” the circular stated.

Vice Chancellors have been urged to take proactive steps to secure their university communities, and issue statements reassuring staff and students of their safety.

The NUC also advised students to remain on campus and focus on their academic activities to avoid potential dangers associated with the planned protests.