UNICEF Urges Stronger Safeguards to Protect Nigerian Students
UNICEF renewed its call to protect Nigerian students after another disturbing abduction incident. The agency stressed that classrooms must remain safe spaces, not places of fear. The reminder echoed its long-standing message that every child deserves to learn without risk.
Local reports confirmed that one abducted schoolgirl escaped and reached safety. Another student who avoided capture also fled during the chaos. As a result, the community continues to cope with shock, worry and uncertainty.
At the UN’s daily briefing in New York, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq urged the immediate release of all abducted individuals. In addition, UNICEF expressed deep sympathy for the affected families and wished a full recovery to the injured.
Strengthening Safety in Schools
The agency emphasized that students, teachers and school buildings must be protected from violence. It reminded authorities that international humanitarian and human rights law require such protection. Therefore, UNICEF called for accountability for those responsible, using national and international standards.
Nigeria endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration in 2015. The commitment aims to preserve the civilian nature of schools and ensure safe access to learning during conflict. The Declaration, launched in Norway, seeks to reduce attacks and safeguard education worldwide.
UNICEF said it continues working with government partners, civil society and local communities. Together, they aim to build stronger child protection systems and promote safe, inclusive learning spaces. Moreover, the agency believes improved safeguards can help prevent future tragedies.
Addressing Barriers to Learning
Attacks on schools remain a major barrier to education in Nigeria. A UNICEF report marking 10 years since the Chibok kidnappings revealed alarming gaps in safety systems. Only 37 percent of schools across 10 states have early warning systems that detect threats.
The report showed disparities in governance, violence prevention, conflict risks and infrastructure. As a result, ensuring safe learning for every Nigerian child remains urgent and unfinished. UNICEF insisted that protecting students, teachers and school facilities must stay a national and global priority.
