🏫 Introduction: Why Knowing the Resumption Date Matters
In Nigeria, school resumption dates are always a hot topic among students, parents, and teachers. With three academic terms every year, each term comes with unique schedules depending on the state, school type (private or public), and recent government directives. If you’re wondering “When is school resuming in Nigeria for the third term?”, this detailed guide will give you all the answers you need — including official calendars, recent government statements, and tips to prepare for reopening.
📚 Understanding the Nigerian School Calendar
Before diving into the third-term dates, let’s understand how the academic year works in Nigeria. Typically, the school calendar is divided into:
- First Term: September to December
- Second Term: January to April
- Third Term: April to July
Each term includes academic activities, mid-term breaks, and final examinations. After the third term, students enjoy the long summer holiday until the new academic year begins again in September.
📅 When Is School Resuming for Third Term in Nigeria (2025)?
As of the 2024–2025 academic session, schools across Nigeria are expected to resume for third term between April 28 and May 6, 2025, depending on the state and school type.
- Boarding Students: Resumed Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Day Students: Resumed Monday, April 28, 2025
These dates were officially confirmed by various school calendars like Taido College, Queens College Lagos, and state education ministries such as Lagos State, Delta, Kano, and FCT Abuja.
🛑 Was There Any Delay Due to Public Holidays?
Yes, some schools that were originally scheduled to resume earlier postponed the reopening due to the Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Kabir holidays. States like Kano, Kaduna, and Osun adjusted their calendars to accommodate the break.
For instance:
- In Kano State, third term resumed on June 16, 2025, after the Eid break.
- Some private schools adjusted their calendar to reopen on May 5, 2025, to allow students more time at home.
📍 State-by-State Resumption Dates for 3rd Term
Here’s a quick look at school resumption dates across major states:
| State | Resumption Date | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos | April 28, 2025 | As per Lagos State Ministry of Education |
| Abuja (FCT) | April 28, 2025 | Both public and private schools |
| Kano | June 16, 2025 | Post-Eid schedule |
| Rivers | April 29, 2025 | Resumed after short delay |
| Oyo | May 1, 2025 | Delayed due to Sallah holidays |
| Enugu | April 28, 2025 | On schedule |
| Delta | April 28, 2025 | No delays reported |
🏫 Private Schools vs Public Schools: Any Difference?
Yes, there is often a difference between private and public school resumption dates:
- Private Schools: Tend to resume on time or earlier. They follow their own academic calendar and are rarely affected by government strike actions.
- Public Schools: May experience delays due to government decisions, union strikes (ASUU for universities, NUT for teachers), or nationwide events.
For example, in Lagos, most private schools resumed April 28, 2025, while some public schools opened May 1, 2025, due to administrative delays.
🏛️ What Does the Federal Ministry of Education Say?
The Federal Ministry of Education encouraged all states to align with the National Education Policy, ensuring third term begins in late April or early May 2025. They also emphasized:
- Avoiding learning losses
- Preparing students for terminal exams like WAEC, NECO, and BECE
- Providing adequate sanitation post-Eid holidays
They urged all schools to update parents through SMS or websites regarding exact resumption dates.
📑 Official Academic Calendar (2024–2025 Highlights)
| Term | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| First Term | September 9, 2024 | December 13, 2024 |
| Second Term | January 6, 2025 | April 11, 2025 |
| Third Term | April 28, 2025 | July 25, 2025 |
Note: Dates may vary slightly depending on your school and location.
🎒 How to Prepare for Third Term Resumption
Here are a few tips for students and parents to ensure a smooth transition back to school:
- Buy textbooks and stationery in advance.
- Prepare uniforms and wash school shoes early.
- Review second term notes and holiday assignments.
- Adjust sleep schedule a week before resumption.
- Visit the school or check their website for official announcements.
💬 What Students Are Saying About Returning to School
Many students have mixed feelings about returning to school:
- Some are excited to reunite with friends.
- Others feel anxious due to unfinished holiday homework.
- Senior students are focused on exam preparations (WAEC, JAMB).
⚠️ Challenges Facing School Resumption
Despite efforts by authorities, school resumption is not without issues:
- Fuel scarcity has affected transportation.
- Insecurity in certain regions delays reopening.
- Teacher strikes may disrupt academic activities in some public schools.
The government is working with security agencies and education unions to resolve these problems swiftly.
❓When Is School Resuming in Nigeria?
Q1: Is the third term resumption date the same for all states?
A: No. While most states aim to resume late April, some states like Kano adjusted their dates due to religious holidays.
Q2: Can schools resume earlier than the official date?
A: Yes, especially private schools. They often set their own calendar.
Q3: What happens if a student misses the first week of third term?
A: It’s best to inform the school. Students may need to catch up on missed notes or assessments.
Q4: Are there penalties for schools that delay resumption?
A: Not usually, but state education boards may caution repeat offenders.
Q5: Will exams still hold as scheduled despite late resumption?
A: Yes. Most schools adjust teaching time to complete the syllabus on time.
✅ Conclusion: Be Prepared and Stay Informed
Knowing when school is resuming in Nigeria for the third term is essential for academic planning. With most schools opening between April 28 and early May 2025, it’s important for students and parents to stay alert and prepare ahead. Check with your school directly, follow state government announcements, and ensure you’re ready to return to the classroom with a positive mindset. Education is a journey — let’s start the third term strong!
