The United Nations has called for the immediate release of pupils and teachers abducted in recent attacks in Oyo and Borno states, urging Nigerian authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen school security.
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria expressed deep concern over the abductions and the rising threat to educational institutions across the country. The UN urged Nigerian authorities to intensify ongoing rescue operations and strengthen protection mechanisms around schools, particularly in high-risk areas.
The statement comes amid renewed school kidnapping incidents across different regions of Nigeria. The UN warned that attacks on schools threaten education and community stability. It further called for accountability and justice, urging that those responsible be identified and prosecuted.
Nigeria has experienced repeated attacks on educational institutions, especially in the northern region, leading to mass abductions that have drawn domestic outrage and international condemnation. Notable incidents include the Chibok and Dapchi school kidnappings.
The UN emphasized that protecting children and ensuring safe access to education is a critical state responsibility, warning that continued attacks could have long-term consequences on education outcomes and community stability. It also reiterated the need for strengthened early-warning systems, improved intelligence coordination, and faster response mechanisms.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts were reportedly ongoing by security agencies to secure the release of the abducted victims in the affected states.
