From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto
The Safe the Child Initiative (STCI) Nigeria has condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Kwara States, calling on government at all levels to urgently strengthen safety measures in schools across the country.
The Programme Manager of STCI, Mrs. Rukayya Ibrahim, made the call while addressing journalists on Monday in Sokoto.
Ibrahim expressed deep shock and concern over the incidents, describing the targeting of schoolchildren as a grave violation of children’s rights and a direct attack on the nation’s future.
“We express deep shock and strong condemnation over the recent abduction of schoolchildren reported in Oyo and Kwara states, as well as other disturbing incidents of school-related attacks across different parts of Nigeria.
“These tragic events once again highlight the growing vulnerability of educational institutions and the urgent need for decisive action to protect children in learning environments,” she said.
According to her, schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning, growth and development, stressing that recurring incidents of abduction are creating fear among pupils, parents and educators.
She stated that the attacks have continued to disrupt education and expose affected children and communities to long-term psychosocial trauma.
Ibrahim expressed concern that despite ongoing efforts under the Safe Schools Initiative, insecurity around educational facilities remains a major challenge.
“The recent cases in Oyo and Kwara states further demonstrate that existing security arrangements require urgent strengthening, improved coordination and sustained investment to effectively safeguard schools, especially in high-risk areas,” she added.
She warned that the consequences of schoolchildren abductions extend beyond the immediate victims, contributing to increased school dropouts, reduced attendance, heightened anxiety among children and weakening public confidence in the education system.
“No child should have to choose between education and personal safety,” she emphasised.
The STCI official urged the Federal Government and affected state governments to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of all abducted children.
She also called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response mechanisms and increase proactive deployment of personnel around vulnerable schools and communities.
Furthermore, Ibrahim urged school administrators, community leaders and parents to collaborate closely with security agencies in establishing effective early warning systems and community-based protection networks to prevent future attacks.
She also appealed to development partners and humanitarian organisations to provide psychosocial support and reintegration services for affected children and their families.
Ibrahim reaffirmed STCI’s commitment to advocating for safe, inclusive and protective learning environments for all children in Nigeria.
