Sanwo-Olu Laments Low Turnout of Students in Lagos Schools after First Lockdown

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has lamented that not less than 24,000 Lagos school students did not report to school after the first shutdown of schools in the first wave of COVID-19.

The governor disclosed this on Tuesday January 19, 2021, at the State House, Ikeja, while giving update on the second wave of COVID-19 in the state.

He stated that “Over 24,000 students are yet to return to school after the first wave of COVID -19 pandemic.”

He explained that that was the reason for the recent decision to open schools in the state after due consultations with key stakeholders.

Sanwo-Olu said that the children were safe because schools have been mandated to adhere strictly to all COVID-19 protocols.

He added that the State Ministry of Education and Office of Education Quality Assurance would intensify efforts to monitor compliance with the directive.

“As you are aware, all schools in the state have been directed to open in compliance with the directives of the Federal Government, and they have commenced academic activities since Monday 18th January, 2021.

“This was a difficult decision to make in light of the second wave of COVID-19, but I assure you it was the best decision for our children’s safety and long-term development, especially our most vulnerable children,” he said.

“The staff and management of the Ministry of Education have been monitoring compliance in both public and private schools with the safety policies and protocols laid out.

“Parents are encouraged to ensure they adhere to the directive in their homes and model responsible behavior to their children at all times, in and out of the home,” he added.