By: By Erewunmi Peace

The Katsina State Government has revoked the operating licences of all private and community schools across the state, directing proprietors to undergo fresh registration under a revised regulatory framework.

The decision, which took effect on August 13, 2025, was approved by the State Executive Council and announced by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa-Musawa, in a circular issued to stakeholders.

Why the Action?

According to the Ministry, the move is aimed at standardizing education, ensuring quality assurance, and improving accountability within the private education sector. The government stressed that all previous licences are null and void, and new certifications must be obtained before the next academic session begins.

What Schools Must Do

School owners are required to:

Submit new applications for registration to the Ministry through the Department of Private and Community Schools.

Provide evidence of payment for application and registration fees into the state’s Single Treasury Account (TSA).

Complete the process before September 30, 2025 to avoid sanctions.

Fee Hike Warning

The government also warned school proprietors against increasing tuition fees under the guise of the new licensing process, stating that no fee adjustments should be made without official approval from the Ministry.

The policy has sparked mixed reactions among education stakeholders. The Katsina State chapter of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has expressed strong opposition to what it described as a “blanket revocation.” The group is considering legal action, arguing that the directive disregards existing certifications and imposes unnecessary financial burdens on school owners.

Next Steps

The Katsina State Government maintains that the reform is in the best interest of students and parents, insisting that it will enhance educational standards across the state.