UNICEF Calls for Immediate Release of Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls

UNICEF Calls for Immediate Release of Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the recent attack on a Government Girls School in Kebbi State’s Maga community, where gunmen killed the school’s Vice-Principal and abducted 25 students. The agency is urging the Nigerian government to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted girls .

UNICEF described the incident as “a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely.” The agency emphasized that students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack .

UNICEF has also called on the Nigerian government to fully implement the Safe Schools Declaration, which was endorsed by Nigeria in 2015. The declaration outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities, ensuring safe access to education during conflict .

The agency is working with authorities and communities to improve child safety and promote secure learning environments. UNICEF stressed that no child should be put at risk while pursuing an education, emphasizing the need for reinforced systems and environments to prevent future tragedies .

The abduction of the Kebbi schoolgirls highlights the vulnerability of educational institutions to attacks. UNICEF’s call for action underscores the importance of protecting education and ensuring that children can learn in a safe and secure environment. The international community must work together to prevent such incidents and promote a culture of safety and respect for education .