The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has issued a directive to Vice Chancellors across Nigeria in anticipation of a nationwide protest.

This directive, communicated through a circular from Chris Maiyaki, the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), emphasizes the need for heightened security measures to protect both staff and students within university environments.

In the circular dated July 28, the minister acknowledged the right of Nigerians to engage in peaceful protests but expressed concern for the safety of the university community amid potential unrest.

He urged Vice Chancellors to implement proactive strategies to ensure the security of their institutions and to reassure staff and students regarding their safety.

Furthermore, the minister advised students to remain on campus and concentrate on their academic responsibilities, thereby minimizing their exposure to possible dangers associated with the protests. The circular stated:

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