The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on the Nigerian government to secure the immediate release of the 25 schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State and to urgently reinforce measures that protect learning environments across the country.
The appeal follows Monday’s deadly attack on Government Girls School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, where armed men killed the school’s vice-principal and kidnapped dozens of students.
The assault has reignited widespread concern over the relentless wave of school attacks in Nigeria’s Northwest.
In a statement on Tuesday, Sussan Akila, UNICEF Nigeria’s Communication Specialist, condemned the attack and described it as a grim reminder of the heightened dangers facing students and teachers in conflict-affected communities.
UNICEF strongly condemns the reported attack on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, which resulted in the death of the school’s Vice-Principal and the abduction of 25 students.
“This tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely”, UNICEF said.
The agency extended its condolences to the bereaved and expressed solidarity with the affected community.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured,” it added.
UNICEF also urged the swift and unconditional release of the kidnapped schoolgirls, stressing that attacks on educational institutions violate international norms.
“Students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack, and those responsible must be held to account in accordance with national and international standards,” the statement noted.
It reminded authorities of Nigeria’s 2015 endorsement of the Safe Schools Declaration, an intergovernmental commitment outlining concrete steps to safeguard schools, teachers, and students during armed conflict.
Read also: Nigeria steps up search for 25 abducted schoolgirls in northwestern Kebbi region Reuters
It pressed for its full implementation, noting that the recurring attacks show the urgent need for stronger protection systems.
“UNICEF is working with government and community partners to improve child safety and promote secure learning environments.
“These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies. No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education”, UNICEF stated.
