Haunted by Insecurity: How the North-West crisis continues to shape student safety in Katsina, by Asma’u Yahaya Mustapha

Story by Asma’u Yahaya Mustapha (Student at Al-Qalam University, Katsina State)

Although Katsina has remained relatively calm in recent weeks, many students say the memory of past insecurity in the North-West region still shapes how they move, think, and feel on and around campus.

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University, Katsina, the fear did not disappear with the calm. Instead, it lingered quietly, influencing daily routines and the way students approach their studies.

A 400-level student told Neptune Prime correspondent that learning becomes difficult when students feel unsafe.

“As a student, it is difficult to learn in a hostile environment. It affects one psychologically because you don’t have that feeling of being secure. This directly or indirectly affects learning, because learning can take place better in a safe and conducive environment,” the student said.

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Another student explained that past insecurity in the region has made students more cautious about their movement, even during routine activities.

“Simple things like attending evening classes, moving off campus, or travelling home is now accompanied with fear and careful planning. It has reduced our sense of freedom and created a lingering feeling of uncertainty about safety,” the student said.

Some students noted that the fear extends beyond personal safety to their families, as parents remain anxious due to past incidents in neighbouring states.

Regular phone calls and warnings from home, they said, add to the emotional pressure students already face.

Student leaders also acknowledge that while the campus is currently peaceful, the wider security situation in the North-West continues to influence student behaviour and participation in campus activities.

Many students hope that sustained peace across the region will gradually restore confidence and allow them to focus fully on their academic and social life without fear.

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