The Federal government has ordered the closure of universities across the country to enable students to take part in the 2023 general elections.
The Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu gave the directive in a letter addressed to the National Universities Commission (NUC) on Thursday in Abuja.
The NewsZenith reports that the general elections are scheduled between Feb. 25 and March 11.
The NUC communicate the government directive in a letter addressed to vice-chancellors of all universities and directors of inter-university centres.
It noted that the directive was based on the directive of the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu.
What the NUC is saying
The NUC directed the universities to suspend academic activities between Feb. 22 and March 14 for students to actively participate in the polls.
The NUC’s letter reads: “As Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and Director/Chief Executive of Inter-University Centres are quite aware the 2023 General Elections.
”INEC has scheduled to the Presidential and National Assembly elections Saturday, Feb. 25.
”The election for gubernatorial and state assembly will hold on March 11.
“In view of the concerns on the security of staff, students and properties, the Minister of Education, Mal. Adama Adamu has directed all universities and inter-university centres to shut down.
”Academic activities are also suspended between February 22 and March 14, 2023.”
The directive follows extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies.
“Consequently, Vice-Chancellors and chief executives of inter-university centres, are by this Circular requested to shut down their respective Institutions from Wednesday 22nd February 2023 to Tuesday 14th March 2023.
“Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive Secretary‘s highest regard for your understanding and unwavering cooperation,’’ the letter further states.
For the record
This government directive will be a major source of encouragement for the young voting population in the country.
They have shown lots of enthusiasm for the upcoming general election.
Data from the Independent National Electoral Commission showed that it registered more than 26 million students to vote.
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