School excursions, field trips, sports competitions and other activities outside school premises have been prohibited by the Oyo State government.
Mrs B.T. Oyinloye, the Permanent Secretary of the Oyo State Ministry of Education explained in a circular issued to educational authorities in the state cited insecurity as the basis for the prohibition.
“In view of the recent security concerns, the Ministry is taking steps to safeguard the lives of students and members of staff in all schools in Oyo State.
“All School Administrators are hereby directed to suspend all excursions, field trips, sports competitions and any other activities that require moving students outside school premises until further notice.
“Kindly note further that prior approvals granted by the Ministry are hereby overridden by this directive.
“Meanwhile, the safety of our children is non-negotiable and takes precedence over all academic and extracurricular activities.
“School Administrators are equally enjoined to keep students within school premises during school hours and should report any suspicious activity around school premises to Law Enforcement Agencies within their jurisdiction.
“This directive takes immediate effect and will be reviewed as soon as the security situation improves. Kindly ensure strict and necessary compliance with the content of this circular.”