The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the attack on a Government Girls’ School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, where armed men reportedly killed the school’s Vice-Principal and abducted 25 students.
The organisation’s reaction was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Susan Akila, UNICEF Nigeria’s Communications Specialist.
Akila described the incident as “a tragic reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and education personnel,” stressing that learning spaces should never become targets of violence.
“We stand with the affected community at this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost loved ones, and we wish quick recovery for the injured,” she said.
UNICEF called for the immediate and safe release of the abducted girls and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice in line with national and international laws.
Akila noted that in 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines specific steps to guarantee the safety of students and the civilian nature of educational institutions during conflict.
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“UNICEF calls on all stakeholders to strengthen efforts to fully implement the Safe Schools Declaration across the country,” the statement added.
The organisation said it is working with government agencies, civil society groups, and communities to reinforce child-protection systems and ensure safer, more inclusive learning environments nationwide.
“These systems must be strengthened to prevent future tragedies. No child should ever be placed at risk simply for trying to get an education,” the statement concluded.
