UNICEF Calls for the Swift and Unconditional Release of the Abducted Schoolgirls in Kebbi State.

UNICEF has called on the Federal Government to secure the immediate release of the 25 schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State and to fully enforce the Safe Schools Declaration, which Nigeria endorsed in 2015. The appeal follows Monday’s attack on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, where armed men killed the vice-principal and kidnapped several students, heightening concerns over continued assaults on educational institutions in the Northwest.

In a statement issued by UNICEF Nigeria’s Communication Specialist, Sussan Akila, the agency denounced the attack.

“UNICEF strongly condemns the reported assault on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, which led to the tragic death of the vice-principal and the abduction of 25 students. This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the educators who support their learning,” Akila said.

She expressed sympathy for those affected. “We stand with the community during this painful moment. Our heartfelt condolences go to the families who lost loved ones, and we wish those injured a full recovery.”

UNICEF also renewed its call for the swift and safe return of the abducted children and emphasised the importance of safeguarding learning environments.

According to Akila, “Students, education facilities, and school personnel must be protected from all forms of attack under international law, and those responsible must face justice under both national and international standards.”

She reminded authorities of Nigeria’s commitment under the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines measures to keep schools safe and maintain their civilian nature even in conflict situations. UNICEF noted that it continues to work with government officials and communities to strengthen protection systems and ensure secure learning spaces.

“These structures must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies. No child should ever be endangered while trying to get an education,” the statement added.

The Safe Schools Declaration is a global commitment endorsed by 121 countries to protect students, teachers, and educational institutions from the impacts of armed conflict. Nigeria has been a signatory since May 2015.

In 2021, the House of Representatives announced plans to review concerns over the implementation of the Safe School Initiative, including funds allocated for key projects such as the rehabilitation of Government Secondary School, Chibok, where more than 200 students were abducted by Boko Haram. That same year, the then Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, remarked that the Federal Government’s Safe School Initiative had been poorly executed.