By Olayinka Latona

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has condemned the decision by some northern state governments to close all schools during the Ramadan fasting period, describing the policy as counterproductive.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos after the first National Executive Council meeting of the fellowship, PFN National President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, criticized the move, arguing that it hinders education and national progress.

He urged the governors to reconsider such policies, particularly in regions already struggling with educational deficits.

Bishop Oke stated: “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.

“From our research, even in Saudi Arabia, where Islam originated, schools remain open during Ramadan. We should not be ‘more Catholic than the Pope.’ We must practice religion with wisdom while prioritizing the future of our children.”

He further emphasized that the policy is particularly harmful to states that are already educationally disadvantaged, urging the northern governors to reassess their stance to avoid jeopardizing the future of young Nigerians.

During the briefing, Bishop Oke, who was re-elected as PFN National President, outlined the fellowship’s vision for the next four years. He stressed that the PFN leadership is committed to continuing the vision of its founding fathers, including greater involvement of Pentecostals in shaping Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.

Speaking at the event, PFN National Secretary, Bishop David Bakare, emphasized that while PFN remains apolitical, 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.”

PFN National Treasurer, Rev. Samuel Aboyeji, urged the government to focus on food security and industrialization rather than relying solely on imports.

“Nigeria must transition from a consumer-driven economy to a productive one. We must invest in agriculture and manufacture what we use. The government should also work towards reducing the cost of petroleum products to ease transportation and lower commodity prices.”

Bishop Oke reaffirmed PFN’s commitment to promoting righteousness and morality, stating that the fellowship will actively pray, speak out, and work against all forms of crime, violence, and societal evils.

“We seek a nation where all citizens can live ‘a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty,’ as directed in the scriptures.”

The PFN leadership urged the Nigerian government to adopt policies that foster development, warning that education and economic growth should never be sacrificed for religious considerations.