The Oyo State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all school excursions, field trips, inter-school sports competitions, and other outdoor activities involving students due to rising security concerns across the state.
Newsonspot reports that the directive, which applies to both public and private schools, was announced in a circular issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye.
According to the ministry, the move is part of urgent safety measures designed to protect students, teachers, and school personnel amid the current security situation in the state.
The circular was addressed to the Executive Chairman of TESCOM, Permanent Secretaries, Tutors-General, Local Inspectors of Education, principals, and head teachers across the state. It also stated that all previously approved excursions, trips, and outdoor activities have been cancelled until further notice.
“In view of the recent security concerns, the Ministry is taking proactive steps to safeguard the lives of students and members of staff in all schools across Oyo State,” the statement noted.
School administrators were directed to halt all activities requiring students to leave school premises, while previous approvals granted for such events have now been withdrawn.
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Mrs. Oyinloye stressed that the safety and welfare of students must remain the top priority for every school authority, insisting that no academic or extracurricular activity should put children at risk.
“The safety of our children is non-negotiable and takes precedence over all academic and extracurricular activities,” she stated.
The ministry also instructed schools to strengthen internal security monitoring and maintain close communication with security agencies within their communities.
Administrators were further advised to ensure students remain within school premises during school hours and to immediately report any suspicious activity around schools to law enforcement authorities.
The directive takes immediate effect and will remain in place pending improvements in the security situation.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among parents, students, and education stakeholders. While many students expressed disappointment over the cancellation of planned excursions and sporting activities, several parents praised the government for prioritising student safety.
One parent, Mrs. Funke Adeyemi, described the move as necessary, saying no parent would want to gamble with the safety of their child despite the disappointment caused by the cancellations.
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Some school administrators also acknowledged the financial and logistical setbacks the suspension may cause for schools that had already planned educational trips and competitions. However, many agreed that the precautionary measure was necessary under the current circumstances.
