UNICEF Condemns Abduction Of Kebbi Schoolgirls

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has strongly condemned the reported attack on the Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State.

Terrorists attacked the school on Monday, killing the Vice-Principal, Mallam Hassan Yakubu and abducting 25 students of the school.

UNICEF made the call in a statement made available to journalists by its Communication Specialist in Nigeria, Sussan Akila.

According to UNICEF, 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.

“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.”

UNICEF further called for the swift release of the abducted children.

“Students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack, and those responsible for this incident must be held to account in accordance with national and international standards.

In 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities, ensuring safe access to education for students during conflict. UNICEF calls on all relevant stakeholders to continue efforts to implement the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria.

UNICEF is collaborating with government partners, civil society, and communities to enhance child protection systems and foster safe and inclusive learning environments nationwide. These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies.”

UNICEF stressed that no child should be put at risk while pursuing education in the country.