The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to school principals in Abuja to stop releasing students during school hours to welcome him or other officials during visits.
Wike delivered this directive on Tuesday while inaugurating the construction of a 9.8-kilometer road linking Kabusa to Takushara at the permanent site of Government Secondary School, Kabusa.
Criticizing the practice, the minister described it as unnecessary and counterproductive to students’ welfare and educational goals.
He emphasized that the priority should be on improving the learning environment rather than engaging students in ceremonial protocols.
“It is not in our culture, and this will be the last time to see this happen,” Wike stated firmly. “Nobody should bring students out of their school to line up on the road. We will not accept that any longer. Our children deserve the best.”
Wike’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the disruption of academic activities for non-academic purposes. By calling for an end to this practice, the Minister underscored the importance of maintaining focus on education and safeguarding students’ time and well-being.
The directive has drawn commendations from some quarters, as stakeholders in the education sector call for adherence to the minister’s stance.
