From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Save the Child Initiative (STCI) Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent abductions of schoolchildren in Oyo and Kwara states, describing the incidents as a serious threat to children’s rights and the nation’s future.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Sokoto, STCI official, Rukayya Ibrahim, expressed concern over the increasing insecurity around educational institutions across the country.
She said the incidents underscore the urgent need for government and security agencies to strengthen measures aimed at safeguarding schools and ensuring the safety of learners and teachers.
According to Ibrahim, schools are meant to provide safe and supportive environments for learning and development, but recurring attacks and abductions have continued to create fear among pupils, parents, and educators.
“The targeting of schoolchildren is not only a violation of their fundamental rights but also a direct attack on the future of our nation,” she stated.
She noted that beyond the immediate dangers posed to victims, such attacks contribute to school dropouts, poor attendance, psychological trauma, and declining public confidence in the education system.
The organisation expressed concern that despite ongoing efforts under the Safe Schools Initiative, educational institutions in several parts of the country remain vulnerable to security threats.
Ibrahim observed that the recent incidents in Oyo and Kwara states highlight the need for improved security coordination, increased investment in school protection, and stronger preventive measures, particularly in high-risk communities.
STCI therefore called on the Federal Government and affected state governments to intensify efforts to secure the safe and immediate release of all abducted children.
The organisation also urged security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response mechanisms, and increase security presence around schools to prevent future occurrences.
In addition, STCI appealed to school authorities, community leaders, and parents to collaborate closely with security agencies in establishing effective early-warning systems and community-based protection structures.
The group further called on development partners and humanitarian organisations to provide psychosocial support and reintegration services for children and families affected by such traumatic experiences.
Reaffirming its commitment to promoting safe and inclusive learning environments, STCI stressed that protecting children requires collective action from government, communities, and all stakeholders.
“Protecting children is both a moral duty and a national responsibility. Every child deserves to attend school without fear or intimidation. The time for decisive action is now,” Ibrahim said.
