The United Nations Children’s Fund UNICEF has condemned the tragic attack on a Government Girls School in Maga community of Kebbi State, where armed assailants reportedly killed the school’s Vice Principal and abducted 25 students.
In a statement released on Tuesday, UNICEF described the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers children and educators continue to face in parts of northern Nigeria. The agency expressed deep sympathy to the affected families and wished the injured a full recovery.
UNICEF called for the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted students, stressing that schools and learners must never be targets of violence. The organisation noted that education facilities, students and staff are protected under international law and urged Nigerian authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice in line with national and global standards.
The organisation also reminded stakeholders that Nigeria endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration in 2015, a global commitment that outlines measures to safeguard schools during conflict and ensure safe access to learning. UNICEF urged government bodies, community leaders and security actors to strengthen efforts toward full implementation of the declaration.
According to the agency, it continues to work closely with government partners, civil society organisations and local communities to reinforce child protection systems and promote safer, more inclusive learning environments across Nigeria.
UNICEF emphasised that no child should ever face harm or fear while pursuing an education, adding that stronger protection measures are urgently needed to prevent such tragedies in the future.
