Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered all schools in the state to reopen for the commencement of second term 2020 /2021 academic session with effect from Monday 18th January, 2021, and advised strict compliance with the COVID-19 protocols.

The Governor gave the order in a statement on Friday through Mrs Abiola Seriki-Ayeni, the Director General of Office of the Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) of the state Ministry of Education, approved by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo.

She said “I want to convey the approval of Mr Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that all public and private schools in Lagos State can still resume for 2nd Term 2020 /2021 academic session with effect from Monday 18th January, 2021.

"In view of this, Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo wishes to enjoin all school managers to enforce strict compliance with all subsisting protocols to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state. I wish you all happy resumption and please stay safe.

Recall that CEOAFRICA reported the Federal Government had earlier directed all schools to resume on January 18, 2021 after due consultation with stakeholders,  Governors, Commissioners of Education, Proprietors and heads of institutions, staff unions and students.

It was agreed at the meeting that other COVID-19 preventive measures should include compulsory temperature checks and hand washing facilities at strategic locations in all schools, ensuring constant supply of water and sanitizers and enforcement of maintenance of social distancing and suspension of large gatherings such as assembly and visiting days.

It was also directed that there should be avoidance of overcrowding, including limitations in class sizes and hostel occupancy; availability of functional health clinics with facilities for isolation and transportation of suspected cases to medical facilities; adherence to all other non-pharmaceutical protocols, restrictions and containment measures as may be prescribed/ approved by the Presidential Task Force from time to time.

“These measures which are to ensure safe reopening of schools for academic activities will be subject to constant review as we urge teachers, school administrators and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance,” as disclosed by FG.