Oyo State Bans All School Trips After Ogbomoso Kidnappings

On May 22, 2026 the ministry issued a circular signed by Permanent Secretary Mrs B.T. Oyinloye after a coordinated abduction attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The attack, which occurred in Ogbomoso, left several students and teachers still captive. Parents and residents have expressed growing anxiety about school safety across the state. The incident prompted an urgent security review by state officials, who cited rising threats to educational institutions. Community leaders have called for increased police presence around schools. The circular was sent to education authorities, including TESCOM and SUBEB chairmen, permanent secretaries, tutor‑generals, zonal directors, local inspectors, principals and head teachers.

The order requires all school administrators to suspend excursions, field trips, sports competitions and any other off‑premises activities. It overrides all prior approvals granted by the ministry and is effective immediately. The ministry stated the move aims to protect students and staff amid recent security concerns. The circular explicitly states that the safety of children is non‑negotiable and takes precedence over all academic and extracurricular activities. Administrators are required to ensure strict compliance and to report any deviations to the ministry. The circular also instructs administrators to keep students on campus during school hours and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies.

Schools must now redesign extracurricular plans that rely on travel, such as inter‑school matches, field trips and sports tournaments. Parents may face logistical challenges as after‑school programs that involve off‑site venues are paused. Teachers lose opportunities for experiential learning that typically occurs outside the classroom. Students preparing for national examinations may lose access to practical field components that are part of the curriculum. Private schools, which often rely on external partnerships for sports leagues, face similar restrictions. The measure places safety above academic and extracurricular schedules, affecting both public and private institutions across Oyo State.

Authorities will review the ban as soon as the security environment stabilizes, and stakeholders will monitor whether the restriction leads to alternative safety measures or a prolonged disruption of school activities.