The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has criticized the decision by some northern state governments to close all schools during the Ramadan fasting period, calling it counterproductive and detrimental to national progress.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos following the first National Executive Council meeting of the fellowship, PFN National President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, expressed concern over the policy.
“The education of our children is fundamental to their future and the progress of our nation. Closing schools for an entire month due to religious celebrations is a setback and should be discouraged.
“Even in Saudi Arabia, where Islam originated, schools remain open during Ramadan. We must practice religion with wisdom while prioritizing the future of our children.”Bishop Oke stated.
He further urged northern governors to reconsider the policy, warning that such decisions could worsen the already fragile educational landscape in the region and impact national development.
During the briefing, Bishop Oke, who was re-elected as PFN National President, outlined the fellowship’s vision for the next four years.
PFN National Secretary, Bishop David Bakare, stressed that while the fellowship remains non-partisan, it acknowledges the importance of Christian participation in governance.
“The Church has played a vital role in educating Pentecostals on their civic responsibilities through the creation of the Directorate of Politics and Good Governance. It is now time for Christians to actively participate in nation-building,” he said.
