The United Nations has strongly condemned the recent abduction of hundreds of students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Niger State, Nigeria, describing the attack as “heartbreaking” and a stark reminder that schools must remain safe havens for learning.
Speaking on Friday, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed deep concern over the incident, which follows closely on the heels of a similar abduction in Kebbi State.
“We have witnessed yet another abduction of pupils, just days after the attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi, where at least 25 students were taken and a teacher killed,” Dujarric said.
According to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), gunmen seized 215 students and 12 teachers from the Papiri-based school in Agwara Local Government Area.
The UN underscored the urgent need for all efforts to focus on the safe and immediate return of the abducted children, while also emphasizing the broader imperative of safeguarding schools from violence.
Dujarric called on member states to fully implement the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines measures to protect the civilian nature of educational institutions during conflicts and ensure uninterrupted access to learning.
He added that the UN, in collaboration with UNICEF and the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, extends its sympathy to affected families and communities.
In response to escalating security threats, the Federal Government of Nigeria announced the temporary closure of 41 Federal Unity Colleges.
The Federal Ministry of Education stated that the measure was necessary to prevent further security breaches and protect students.
The UN’s condemnation comes amid growing concern over repeated attacks on schools in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections for children and educators and concerted action to secure the country’s educational institutions.
