Katsina govt revokes licences of all private, community schools, orders fresh registration

The Katsina State Government has cancelled the operating licences of every private and community school in the state, directing proprietors to undergo a new registration process before September 30, 2025.

Officials say the sweeping decision aims to overhaul the regulatory framework, enhance quality assurance, and enforce higher standards in the education sector.

A circular signed by Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa-Musawa, and released Saturday by ministry spokesperson Malam Sani Danjuma, confirmed that all previous licences became void on August 13, 2025, following approval by the State Executive Council.

Musa-Musawa said the move stems from a fresh policy for private and community schools unveiled at a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting on June 2, 2025.“All affected schools should submit payment receipts for application and registration fees for new licenses to the Ministry via the Department of Private and Community Schools, based on school categorization.

“And also, all payments must be made exclusively to the Katsina state’s single treasury account, on or before Sep. 30, 2025,” she stated.

She cautioned school owners not to use the revised fees as an excuse to increase tuition, insisting that any changes to charges must first receive the ministry’s approval.

According to the commissioner, schools are to maintain academic activities while completing the new licensing and annual renewal procedures. She added that details on school categories and the updated fees will be provided to the National Association of Proprietors of Private and Community Schools.

Musa-Musawa reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect children’s education by aligning standards with international best practices.