The Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, has debunked reports claiming that all government schools in the FCT would be shut down on Nov. 28, insisting that no such directive was issued from any level of the administration.
The clarification followed the rapid spread of messages, particularly across social media, suggesting that the minister, Nyesom Wike, had ordered a sudden, system-wide closure of schools due to security concerns.
In a statement released in Abuja, Mr. Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, described the reports as completely false and capable of causing unnecessary panic among students, parents, and school authorities.
He emphasised that the administration’s approved academic calendar remains in full effect and has not undergone any alteration.
Olayinka urged the public to dismiss what he termed a misleading rumour. He noted that misinformation of this nature often disrupts school operations, triggers fear within communities, and fuels speculation about safety in the nation’s capital.
According to him, the minister is committed to ensuring stability across all educational institutions under the FCTA.
Reinforcing the administration’s stance, Olayinka assured residents that both students and staff would continue to receive adequate security across schools.
He revealed that Minister Wike had recently ordered the resumption of “Operation Sweep”—one of the FCT’s notable security initiatives—alongside other coordinated measures aimed at improving public safety across the territory.
Beyond clarifying the rumoured closure, the statement also disclosed key administrative actions taken within the education sector.
According to Olayinka, the minister directed the immediate suspension of the Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo.
While the statement did not elaborate on the grounds for the suspension, it noted that the decision forms part of ongoing disciplinary measures within the system.
Additionally, the Acting Head of Service, Mrs. Nancy Nathan, has been instructed to commence disciplinary proceedings against the Director of School Services, Mrs. Aishatu Sani Alhassan, in line with established civil service regulations.
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The development signals a broader effort within the FCTA to strengthen administrative discipline, improve oversight, and ensure that public communication from officials reflects accuracy and institutional responsibility.
The administration reiterated that schools across the FCT will operate normally on the previously approved academic schedule.
Parents and guardians were advised to rely on official government communication channels for verified information, especially concerning matters of public education and safety.
