The Anambra State Government has officially ended the practice of closing schools on Mondays due to sit-at-home directives, following an Executive Order signed by the state authorities. The announcement signals a major policy shift aimed at ensuring uninterrupted education for students across the state.

Previously, schools in Anambra had routinely closed on Mondays in response to voluntary sit-at-home directives issued by local groups. These closures, often linked to security concerns or civil agitation, disrupted the academic calendar, forcing schools to reschedule lessons and examinations. The government’s latest decision seeks to guarantee consistency in schooling while maintaining public safety.

According to the Executive Order, all primary and secondary schools in Anambra State will operate as normal on Mondays, irrespective of any sit-at-home directives. Authorities emphasized that education must remain a priority and that school operations cannot be subjected to external disruptions.

The state government directed school administrators, teachers, and local education authorities to ensure that teaching continues as scheduled. Parents and guardians were also urged to support the directive by sending their children to school, noting that the government will collaborate with security agencies to guarantee safe learning environments.

Education officials highlighted that the policy is aimed at reducing academic losses caused by frequent Monday closures, which had led to extended school years and rushed lesson plans. They assured stakeholders that contingency plans will be in place to address any potential security concerns without compromising students’ education.

The decision has been welcomed by students, parents, and teachers, who had long complained about the disruption of school routines. “This is a good move. Our children can now have a predictable learning schedule without interruptions,” said one parent in Awka, the state capital. Teachers also noted that consistent school days would improve lesson delivery and exam preparation.

While the sit-at-home directives will continue to be observed in the wider community as a civic action, the government clarified that educational institutions are exempt from the closures. Security agencies will provide additional patrols and monitoring around school premises on Mondays to ensure students’ safety.

Context of Sit-At-Home Directives

Sit-at-home directives in Anambra State have been issued sporadically over the past few years, often by activist or regional groups protesting political or social issues. These orders typically see residents instructed to remain indoors, while businesses and schools are expected to close temporarily.

The government, however, noted that education should not be held hostage to political or social demonstrations. By exempting schools from Monday closures, the state seeks to balance civic freedoms with the right of children to continuous learning.

Education analysts in Nigeria have highlighted that frequent school closures due to political disruptions remain a challenge in several states. Anambra’s new directive could serve as a model for ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars while allowing civil protests to proceed outside school hours.

The Ministry of Education stated that it will monitor implementation closely, and any school found complying with sit-at-home closures on Mondays without approval may face sanctions. The government reiterated its commitment to prioritizing education, safety, and community cooperation in achieving this policy.

With this Executive Order, Anambra joins other states in Nigeria taking steps to protect students’ rights to consistent education, signaling a renewed focus on academic stability amid regional and political challenges.