The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged the immediate, unconditional release of the 25 students kidnapped from a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State in northwest Nigeria. The attack also resulted in the death of the school’s vice principal.
“This heartbreaking event is yet another clear reminder of how urgently we must protect children, their schools, and the staff who support their learning,” UNICEF said in a statement. “We stand with the community during this painful time, extend our deepest sympathies to the families who lost loved ones, and wish the injured a swift recovery.”
UNICEF called on security agencies and local residents to work together to secure the safe return of the abducted students. The agency stressed that children, schools, and education personnel are protected under international law and insisted that those responsible must face justice.
In its Tuesday statement, UNICEF described the attack as a devastating example of the increasing dangers children face in conflict-affected areas. The organization reiterated that no child should ever be harmed simply for trying to get an education. It also reminded the Nigerian government of its pledge to the Safe Schools Declaration, which it endorsed in 2015, outlining steps to keep schools secure and ensure learning continues even during crises.
UNICEF added that it is working with government bodies, civil society groups, and local communities to strengthen child protection efforts and create safe, inclusive learning environments nationwide. However, it warned that swift action is essential to prevent further tragedies.
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