By John Moses
The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, has ordered the immediate closure of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBUL) in Lapai, following recent violent incidents and rising security concerns.
The directive was announced on Wednesday by Alhaji Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), who cited the deteriorating security situation within the university community, including the tragic killing of a student on Monday, 23 June.
“We are deeply saddened by the recent events and are taking decisive, proactive steps to restore calm and security,” Usman said in a statement issued from the state capital, Minna.
While the government has not released detailed information about the perpetrators or motives behind the attacks, officials have confirmed that a comprehensive investigation is underway.
The SSG reassured the public that law enforcement agencies were being mobilised to secure the area and identify those responsible for the violence. “The safety of every citizen, especially our students, is of paramount importance,” he added.
Students and staff have been urged to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and stay alert while security operations continue. Usman also promised that additional updates would be communicated as the situation evolves.
The temporary shutdown of IBBUL comes as part of broader efforts by the Niger State Government to maintain law and order in the face of growing insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria.