The Oyo State Government has suspended all school excursions, field trips, sports competitions, and other external activities across the state over growing security concerns.
Authorities announced the directive days after gunmen attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area and abducted several students and teachers who still remain in captivity.
Government Issues Immediate Directive
The Oyo State Ministry of Education issued the directive through a circular dated May 22, 2026.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs B.T. Oyinloye, signed the circular and forwarded it to education authorities across the state.
According to the government, rising insecurity and the recent Ogbomoso kidnapping incident forced authorities to take urgent preventive measures.
Schools Must Suspend External Activities
Furthermore, the ministry directed all school administrators to stop every activity that requires moving students outside school premises.
The government also cancelled all previous approvals granted for excursions and related programmes.
“In view of the recent security concerns, the Ministry is taking steps to safeguard the lives of students and members of staff in all schools in Oyo State,” the circular stated.
The ministry stressed that student safety remains more important than academic or extracurricular activities.
Government Warns Schools to Tighten Security
In addition, the government instructed school administrators to keep students within school premises during school hours.
The ministry also urged school authorities to report suspicious movements or activities around schools to security agencies immediately.
“This directive takes immediate effect and will be reviewed as soon as the security situation improves,” the circular added.
Authorities also demanded strict compliance from all public and private schools across the state.
Education Authorities Receive Circular
Meanwhile, the government circulated the directive to major education agencies and school administrators statewide.
Recipients included TESCOM, SUBEB, Tutor-Generals, Zonal Directors, Local Inspectors of Education, principals, and head teachers.
Fear Grows After School Abduction Attack
The decision follows growing fear among parents and residents after the coordinated abduction attack in Ogbomoso.
The incident triggered fresh concerns about the safety of students, teachers, and schools across Oyo State.
Security agencies have continued rescue operations while authorities strengthen safety measures in schools and surrounding communities.
