UNICEF has called on the Nigerian government to urgently secure the release of the 25 schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State and to fully uphold the 2015 Safe Schools Declaration, following yet another attack on an educational institution in the country’s Northwest.
The agency’s appeal came after gunmen stormed a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area on Monday, killing the vice-principal and kidnapping several students. The incident has reignited concerns about relentless assaults on schools in the region.
In a statement signed by Sussan Akila, Communication Specialist for UNICEF Nigeria, the organisation strongly condemned the attack.
Akila stated, “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.”
She expressed sympathy for the victims and their families, adding, “We stand with the affected community at this difficult time; our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured.”
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On the demand for action, Akila continued, “UNICEF further urges the swift release of the abducted children.”
She also emphasized the responsibility to keep schools safe, noting, “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.”
Referencing Nigeria’s existing commitment, she said, “In 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities to ensure safe access of students to education during conflict.”
UNICEF, she added, is working closely with government authorities and communities to strengthen child protection and enhance school safety systems.
“These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies. No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education,” the statement concluded.
The Safe Schools Declaration is a global political commitment endorsed by 121 countries, including Nigeria, which signed on in May 2015.