Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has ordered the immediate reopening of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, with academic activities set to resume on Monday, August 4, 2025, following a two-month closure prompted by security threats, including the tragic death of a student in a robbery incident. The directive, announced on August 1, 2025, by Secretary to the State Government Alhaji Abubakar Usman, comes after a comprehensive review of enhanced security measures and infrastructure upgrades, which Bago deemed sufficient to safeguard students, staff, and the university community. The closure, initially ordered on June 25, 2025, followed violent incidents attributed to banditry, disrupting academic programs and sparking protests by students over safety concerns.
The state government has implemented a robust security framework, though specific details were not disclosed, and Bago emphasized that the safety and welfare of the university community remain a top priority. Usman, in a statement, urged returning students and staff to adhere strictly to security protocols to ensure a smooth resumption. The decision has been welcomed by the Students’ Union Government, with President Comrade Hassan Mohammed appealing for sustained efforts to prevent future tragedies.
