The Lagos State Government has outlined a series of safety, hygiene and environmental measures for public schools ahead of the commencement of the 2026/2027 academic session.
Public primary and secondary schools in the state are expected to resume on Monday, while model colleges will reopen on Sunday.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, said the government was particularly concerned about creating conditions that would protect the health and wellbeing of learners, teachers and other members of the school community.
The commissioner made the call in a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Basirat Lawal, ahead of the new academic session.
Alli-Balogun urged school authorities to pay close attention to issues that could compromise the safety of pupils and students, including damaged facilities, unsafe areas within school premises, security concerns and health-related risks.
He also called on parents, learners, teachers, administrators and other stakeholders to report such concerns promptly to the relevant authorities.
Beyond physical safety, the commissioner directed schools to maintain clean and conducive learning environments, with functional water supply, sanitation and hygiene facilities.
He urged pupils and students to adopt simple but important health practices, including regular handwashing, proper waste disposal, good respiratory hygiene and avoiding the sharing of personal belongings.
Schools were also encouraged to maintain adequate ventilation in classrooms and clean frequently touched surfaces regularly as part of efforts to promote healthier learning environments.
“Teachers, administrators and non-teaching staff are expected to lead by example by maintaining high standards of personal hygiene, environmental cleanliness and safety,” Alli-Balogun said.
The commissioner said the beginning of another academic year offered an opportunity for schools to reinforce discipline, character development, innovation and academic excellence alongside the provision of safe learning spaces.
He stressed that maintaining safe schools should not be left to the government or school authorities alone, urging members of the wider school community to remain vigilant and cooperate with administrators.
According to him, timely reporting of potential hazards and other concerns would help authorities respond before they develop into threats to learners or staff.
The state government consequently urged parents and school communities to work closely with school authorities throughout the session and immediately draw attention to circumstances capable of affecting the safety, health or wellbeing of learners and personnel.
